Requires every school to have at least one person certified in CPR and first aid while pupils are present

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to requiring every school to have at least one person certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first aid present while pupils are in attendance

Purpose or general idea of bill

The purpose of this legislation is to insure that added protections are afforded students, while they attend school, from the hazards of choking and other preventable medical emergencies.

Summary of specific provision

Section 1 amends the education law by adding a new Section 920 which directs schools to have present at all times during which pupils are present at least one person certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first aid; outlines the requirements to be established by the Commissioner of Education for certification in CPR and first aid; notes that this law will not supersede any other provision in health or education law relative to health education or school nurses.

Section 4 is the enacting clause.

Existing law

Existing law does not require personnel trained in CPR and first aid to be done on premises during school hours.

Justification

Several recent medical incidents involving students in New York State's public schools have been exacerbated by the absence of personnel in schools who are trained in CPR and first aid. A few students have died as a result of choking incidents; these incidents may not have ended so tragically if trained help was on hand in the school building.

Prior legislative history

None.

Fiscal implications

Implementation of the provisions of this legislation is contingent upon availability of funding through grants, contributions and other sources.

Effective date

The first of January after it has become a law, provided, however, that those rules and regulations necessary to effectuate the provisions of this act shall be promulgated before such date.