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HB 1398

Office of school safety.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Commons and 2 co-sponsors

HB 1398 requires Arkansas schools to implement a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan, enhancing student safety by preparing for sudden cardiac arrest with training and AEDs.

First reading: referred to Committee on Veterans Affairs and Public Safety
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Bill Summary · HB 1398

Summary of House Bill 1398 (HB 1398)

Overview

House Bill 1398, introduced on February 4, 2025, aims to enhance the safety of students in Arkansas schools by requiring the establishment and implementation of a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan. This plan is intended to address incidents of sudden cardiac arrest and similar life-threatening emergencies occurring on school grounds.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 1398 is to ensure that schools are prepared to respond effectively to cardiac emergencies. By integrating nationally recognized elements into the response plans, the bill seeks to reduce the risk of fatalities associated with sudden cardiac arrest among students.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions:

  1. Definition Updates:

    • The bill amends existing definitions related to student sudden cardiac arrest education, clarifying what constitutes "athletic activity" and defining terms such as "cardiac emergency response plan" and "sudden cardiac arrest."

  2. Implementation Requirements:

    • Development of Plans: Each school must develop and implement a cardiac emergency response plan by the 2025-2026 school year.
    • Core Elements: The plan must include:
      • Integration of nationally recognized guidelines for emergency cardiovascular care.
      • Activation protocols for a cardiac emergency response team.
      • Placement and maintenance of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on school property.
      • Ongoing staff training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED use.
      • Annual practice drills to ensure readiness.
      • Collaboration with local emergency medical services to align school protocols with community emergency response strategies.

  3. Monitoring and Compliance:

    • The Arkansas Department of Education may establish procedures to monitor schools' adherence to these requirements.

  4. Timeline for Compliance:

    • Schools are required to incorporate the new requirements into their emergency operations plans by the next scheduled revision, but no later than the 2026-2027 school year.

Affected Parties

  • Students: The bill directly impacts students, particularly those involved in athletic activities, by enhancing safety measures against sudden cardiac arrest.
  • Schools: All public and private schools in Arkansas will need to develop and implement the required plans and training.
  • School Personnel: Staff members will be required to undergo training in CPR and AED use, increasing their preparedness for emergencies.

Legislative Status

  • As of March 20, 2025, HB 1398 has been passed and is now designated as Act 352. The bill has successfully navigated through various legislative stages, including committee reviews and amendments, before being enrolled and transmitted to the Governor's Office.

Conclusion

HB 1398 represents a significant step towards improving emergency preparedness in Arkansas schools, specifically addressing the critical need for effective responses to cardiac emergencies. By mandating comprehensive plans and training, the legislation aims to safeguard the health and well-being of students across the state.

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

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