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HB 256

DEFIBRILLATORS AT SCHOOL ATHLETIC EVENTS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Yanira Gurrola and 3 co-sponsors

New Mexico schools must provide automated external defibrillators and trained personnel at athletic events to enable rapid response to sudden cardiac events.

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Bill Summary · HB 256

Legislative bill overview

HB 256 requires New Mexico schools to have automated external defibrillators (AEDs) available at athletic events and mandates training for school personnel on their use. The bill aims to improve emergency response capabilities for sudden cardiac events among student athletes, which can be fatal without immediate intervention.

Why is this important

Sudden cardiac arrest can strike athletes of any age without warning, and survival rates drop dramatically without immediate defibrillation—potentially by 7-10% per minute of delay. Having accessible AEDs and trained personnel at school athletic events could be the difference between life and death, particularly in rural areas where emergency response times may be longer.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Schools must purchase AEDs (typically $1,200-$2,500 each) and conduct staff training, creating budget pressures for districts already facing fiscal constraints
  • Liability and training requirements: Unclear liability protections if equipment fails or training is inadequate; may require ongoing recertification costs
  • Scope limitations: Bill may not address non-athletic events where students gather or specify maintenance/replacement protocols for equipment, creating enforcement gaps

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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