On May 13, Governor Shapiro signed Senate Bill 375 into law as Act 17 of 2026. The law took effect immediately and addresses the placement of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs), CPR training, and other measures designed to prevent deaths from sudden cardiac arrest. Act 17 repeals some existing provisions of the School Code dealing with CPR training and AEDs and replaces them with a new section (1423.1) titled “AED and CPR Instruction and Procedure.”
The new law applies to school districts, non-public schools, charter schools, intermediate units, and career and technical centers.
Key provisions include the following:
- There must be at least one (1) CPR and AED trained individual “in each school building during each school day.” “School day” is defined as “the length of time that a child subject to compulsory school attendance is expected to be receiving instruction.” “School building” is defined as a building “owned or under the control of a school entity or nonpublic school where classes are taught or extracurricular activities are conducted on a regular basis.” Note this includes not just regular school buildings but could also include activity centers, fitness centers, fieldhouses, and other locations where activities are regularly held.
- There must be at least one (1) AED at all locations where interscholastic athletic activities are occurring. This includes both the brick-and-mortar buildings and athletic fields. There must also be at least one (1) individual present at the activity who is trained to use the AED and has easy access to the AED at the activity location.
- The law requires the following individuals to be trained in the use of AEDs: school nurses (or designee), athletic coaches, physical education teachers, athletic trainers, and marching band instructors. Other individuals may be trained at the discretion of the school entity. The law does not address training requirements for assistant coaches, related activity advisors and personnel. To the extent your school entity outsources athletic trainer services, please be sure the contracted provider is in compliance with this new law.
- CPR and AED training must be made available to all employees and approved volunteers at least once every two (2) years, though attendance is voluntary. The training must be conducted by an approved entity specified in the law, such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association. The training may be provided virtually.
- Finally, school entities must have a cardiac arrest plan that includes the minimum components outlined in the law, including, but not limited to, “placement of AEDs on school premises and athletic fields.” Annual sudden cardiac arrest drills, with or without student participation, are also required.
If you have questions about implementing Act 17 of 2026 at your school entity, please contact Gareth Pahowka at gpahowka@saxtonstump.com from our Education group.
