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Bill

Bill

HB 549

Relating to the availability and use of airway clearance devices at public school campuses and to contracts for medication for respiratory distress and training at public schools.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Donna Campbell and 4 co-sponsors

Texas schools must stock airway clearance devices and respiratory medications with staff training to improve emergency response capabilities for medical crises.

Effective immediately
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #education--primary&secondary--general(i0230) #education--primary&secondary--otherschoolpersonnel(i0246) #education--schooldistricts(i0220) #medicine&prescriptiondrugs(s7338) #minors--health&safety(i0533) #staffdevelopment&training(s0317)
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Bill Summary · HB 549

Legislative bill overview

HB 549 requires Texas public schools to have airway clearance devices (like automated external defibrillators and similar equipment) available on campus and establishes protocols for schools to contract for respiratory distress medications and staff training. The bill became effective immediately upon the Governor's signature in June 2025.

Why is this important

Medical emergencies involving respiratory distress or cardiac events can be life-threatening, and minutes matter in response time. By mandating these devices and medications be readily available at schools—where children spend significant time—the bill aims to improve survival rates and outcomes for students and staff experiencing such emergencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden: Schools must purchase, maintain, and regularly replace airway clearance devices and medications, which adds to already-strained budgets with no specified state funding mechanism mentioned
  • Staff liability and training: Schools need properly trained personnel to use these devices and medications; inadequate training or improper use could create liability concerns and may require additional staff or professional development resources
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's specific requirements for "contracts for medication" and training standards aren't fully detailed, potentially leaving schools uncertain about compliance expectations and costs

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

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