MS SB2349

Requires all public schools and charter schools to develop and implement a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) beginning in the 2024-2025 school year that addresses sudden cardiac arrest and life-threatening emergencies on school grounds and at athletic events.

Schools must integrate CERPs with local emergency service providers and include core elements such as establishing response teams, AED placement and maintenance, staff training in CPR/AED use, annual drills, and ongoing plan review following American Heart Association or other nationally recognized evidence-based standards.

Schools may accept gifts, grants, and donations for purchasing FDA-approved AEDs and covering inspection, maintenance, and staff training costs.

Grants school district employees and agents immunity from civil liability when providing cardiac emergency assistance in good faith under the CERP requirements.

Exempts school district personnel from requiring a Mississippi-licensed physician to exercise medical control authority over AED use, allowing schools to operate independently of the standard physician oversight requirement.

Effective July 1, 2024.