Requires basic CPR training in secondary school health education curricula

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to requiring the inclusion of basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation training in secondary school health education curricula

Purpose

This bill requires training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) be given as a part of the high school health curriculum.

Summary of provisions

Section 1: Section 804-c of the Education Law, as added by chapter 269 of the laws of 1999. Subdivision (l) states that instructions regarding training in CPR shall be offered as a part of the secondary school health curriculum. In addition to the requirement that all teachers of health education be certified to teach health, any person instructing pupils in CPR must possess a valid certification by an agency offering such a certification within this area. To effectuate these requirements, schools shall be eligible for funding through the boards of cooperative educational services. Off-site training in CPR that is approved by a nationally-recognized organization may fulfill the requirements of this section.

Subdivision (2) states that the commissioner may prescribe regulations governing such health education courses which shall include instruction in CPR and shall provide for a three year phase-in schedule of duties created by this article.

Subdivision (3) states that school authorities or off-site entities providing such a course must provide the needed facilities, time and place for the instruction and training, and shall provide learning aids and curriculum resource materials to support the course of study.

Subdivision (4) As part of the NYS learning standards review initiative the regents should consider the inclusion of CPR as part of the standards for inclusion in curriculum guidance.

Section 2: Effective Date.

Existing law

Currently, CPR may be offered as a voluntary addition to the health curriculum.

Justification

Due to the increased percentages of people diagnosed with heart disease each year, CPR instruction can provide students with the knowledge necessary to save lives. This bill will require secondary schools to provide CPR instruction. This bill will also ensure that such instructions are properly given and that all lessons meet the established standards of professional organizations such as the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross. Furthermore, this legislation ensures that schools have the necessary resources to execute the above requirements.

This bill will not require high school students to become certified in CPR, but simply give them the necessary training. By requiring schools to offer CPR training as part of a student's health education curriculum, this bill will increase awareness of important life saving techniques.

Legislative history

2008 - Passed Senate

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.