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Bill Summary · HB 2949

Bill Overview

HB 2949, introduced in the 2026 Missouri legislative session and titled the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Screening Act, seeks to establish a statewide framework for screening individuals for risk of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The bill aims to promote early identification of at-risk individuals, with the goal of reducing SCA incidents through targeted screening, referrals, and education.

Purpose and Intent

  • Establish a formal, systematic approach to screening for risk factors associated with sudden cardiac arrest.
  • Encourage early detection and intervention to prevent SCA events.
  • Provide guidance to healthcare providers, schools, youth sports programs, and related entities on screening practices and referral pathways.

Key Provisions

While the available information does not detail every provision, the bill is expected to include elements commonly found in SCA screening legislation, such as:

  • Creation of screening protocols: Development or adoption of standardized screening questions or tools to assess risk factors for SCA.
  • Scope of screening: Identification of populations covered (e.g., student athletes, school-aged children, or general populations in certain settings).
  • Referral and follow-up: Requirements for referring individuals identified as at risk to appropriate medical evaluation or cardiology specialists.
  • Training and education: Mandates for training programs for school personnel, coaches, healthcare providers, and potentially parents on recognizing warning signs and responding to SCA risk.
  • Data collection and reporting: Mechanisms for collecting anonymized data to monitor screening outcomes and effectiveness, while addressing privacy considerations.
  • Coordination with existing health programs: Alignment with state public health initiatives and school health services.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Students and student athletes: If the act targets school-age populations or athletic programs, students may undergo screening and receive referrals as indicated.
  • Schools, school districts, and athletic programs: Responsible for implementing screening protocols, training staff, and coordinating referrals.
  • Healthcare providers: May be involved in evaluating at-risk individuals and managing follow-up care.
  • Parents and guardians: Potentially engaged through notification and consent processes for screening and referral.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction and First Reading: January 13, 2026.
  • Second Reading: January 14, 2026.
  • Referral to Committee: Emerging Issues (H) on May 15, 2026.
  • The bill currently reflects an early-stage path through the Missouri House of Representatives, with standard committee review procedures likely to follow (hearings, amendments, and potential floor votes).

Potential Impacts and Considerations

  • Public health impact: If implemented, the bill could increase early detection of cardiac risk in youth and certain populations, potentially reducing SCA incidents through timely medical evaluation.
  • Resource implications: Implementation may require funding for training, screening tools, and administrative support in schools and healthcare settings.
  • Privacy and consent: Data collection and screening activities must balance public health goals with student and family privacy rights.
  • Stakeholder engagement: Success depends on cooperation among schools, healthcare providers, parents, and athletic organizations.

Note: The summary is based on the bill’s title and available action history. For precise language, exact provisions, definitions, funding levels, and implementation details, the bill’s full text and amended versions should be reviewed once published.

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

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