Rhode IslandH70272026 Regular SessionHouse

AN ACT RELATING TO EDUCATION -- HEALTH AND SAFETY OF PUPILS .

Sponsored By: Thomas E. Noret (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

AEDs and CPR-trained staff at schools

Rhode Island middle and high schools must have working AEDs on site. Public and private schools are covered. When school activities or athletic contests happen, at least one person present must be trained in CPR and AED use. Devices and training follow national heart care guidelines.

School cardiac emergency plans by 2027-28

Beginning in the 2027-2028 school year, each middle and high school must have a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan. The plan sets AED locations using national guidelines. AEDs must be unlocked, clearly signed, and tested and maintained per the maker’s rules. Schools must tell local EMS the AED type and location. Staff named in the plan must be trained in first aid, CPR, and AED use.

Sports emergency plans and coach CPR training

Beginning in the 2027-2028 school year, schools with sports must have a venue-specific Athletic Emergency Action Plan. It must be posted, widely shared, and practiced each year. An AED must be clearly marked and unlocked at each school athletic venue during events and practices. Schools must test and maintain the device and tell local EMS its type and location. All coaches must keep first aid, CPR, and AED certifications under national guidelines.

Donations can fund school AEDs and training

Districts may accept gifts, grants, and in-kind donations to buy AEDs that meet FDA standards. Donations can also pay for inspections, maintenance, and staff training. The law does not provide state funding for these costs.

State will set rules and check compliance

The commissioner of education, with the health director, may issue rules to run these AED and emergency plan requirements. The state sets a process to check that schools follow the rules.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Thomas E. Noret
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Nathan W. Biah
Democratic • House
Susan R. Donovan
Democratic • House
Alex S. Finkelman
Democratic • House
Joseph M. McNamara
Democratic • House
Mary Messier
Democratic • House
William W. O'Brien
Democratic • House
Robert D. Phillips
Democratic • House
Earl A. Read, III
Democratic • House
Patricia A. Serpa
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 62 • No: 3

House vote • 4/9/2026

HEALTH AND SAFETY OF PUPILS PASSAGE