Governor Meyer Signs Legislation Requiring CPR and AED Training for High School Coaches
Delaware - Governor Matt Meyer ceremonially signed House Bill 71 last Friday evening, establishing new safety requirements for high school athletic programs across Delaware. The legislation mandates that all coaches receive training in CPR, first aid, and automated external defibrillator (AED) use.
The bill also requires schools to develop emergency action plans and maintain AEDs on-site during athletic events and practices. Schools must ensure the equipment remains properly maintained and report compliance to the state.
"Every second counts in a medical emergency, and nothing is more important than the safety of our students," Governor Matt Meyer said. "By requiring CPR and AED training for coaches and ensuring schools have the right equipment and plans in place, we are providing lifesaving tools so that every student-athlete in Delaware can thrive."
House Majority Leader Kerri Evelyn Harris and Senator Nicole Poore sponsored the legislation. The bill aims to improve emergency response capabilities at schools and protect student athletes from cardiac emergencies.
"Sudden cardiac arrest strikes without warning and remains the leading cause of death among young athletes," Rep. Kerri Evelyn Harris said. "HB 71 makes sure that our coaches and schools are ready to respond so that our kids have the best possible chance at survival when every second counts. I'm grateful to everyone who has helped advocate for this legislation, especially the parents of student athletes who have been impacted."
Senator Nicole Poore, who chairs the Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association Task Force, emphasized the peace of mind the legislation provides to parents.
"As a mom of a student athlete, I know firsthand the peace of mind that comes from knowing our kids are safe when they step on the field," Sen. Nicole Poore said. "This legislation is about more than just requirements - it's about preparation and making sure every school is ready to respond in the event of a cardiac emergency. With the signing of this bill under Gov. Meyer's administration, we are giving parents the confidence to entrust their children with Delaware coaches and sports professionals, and keeping safety first in youth sports."
The ceremonial signing occurred at Dover High School during the homecoming football game. The event took place on the field before the coin toss. Greer Firestone, an advocate who supported the legislation, shared his daughter's story that helped inspire the bill.
Firestone's daughter Grace suffered sudden cardiac arrest in 2011, just days after high school graduation. Her brother Grant, who had CPR training, saved her life. Medical professionals note that without CPR or AED use within 15 minutes, death or significant cognitive damage becomes almost certain. Grace now has an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator and works as a doctor.
DIAA Executive Director Dave Baylor highlighted the critical role coaches play in emergency situations.
"Coaches often are the first responders on the field and can provide immediate aid when timing is critical," DIAA Executive Director Dave Baylor said. "By having this training before an emergency arises, our coaches will be prepared in the time of crisis and ultimately better able to protect our student athletes."
Dr. Sean Connolly, a pediatric cardiologist at Nemours Children's Health, Delaware Valley, and national volunteer for the American Heart Association, provided a medical perspective on the legislation's importance.
"Not every cardiac arrest can be prevented, but lives can be saved with appropriate training, planning, and equipment," Dr. Sean Connolly said. "By certifying all coaches in CPR and AED use, developing and practicing emergency action plans, and ensuring AEDs are readily available at all school athletic events and practices, this bill lays the foundation for what we know increases survival from sudden cardiac arrest. These strategies work and lives will be saved."
Former Philadelphia Eagles offensive guard Todd Herremans praised the collaborative effort behind the legislation.
"Today's bill signing is a testament to leadership and teamwork," Todd Herremans said. "I appreciate and applaud Governor Meyer, our legislative champions, House Majority Leader Harris, and all the Smart Heart Sports Coalition members who came together to advance this commonsense, life-saving measure. With this bill crossing the goal line and into law, responders at Delaware's high school athletic events and venues will be better equipped and prepared to swiftly swing into action and respond effectively to cardiac emergencies if and when they occur. This makes the places where young people learn, play, and compete safer and more resilient. This is a victory for student safety throughout the state."
