Agenda Summary
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In support of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in schools.
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Official Text
WHEREAS: Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States and second leading cause of death in Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS: Heart disease, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias, significantly increases the risk of cardiac arrest, a condition in which the heart suddenly stops beating due to an electrical malfunction; and
WHEREAS: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), together with an automated external defibrillator (AED), is the most effective way for bystanders to help someone in cardiac arrest. CPR keeps blood flowing to vital organs, while an AED can restart the heart by restoring its normal rhythm; and
WHEREAS: According to the American Heart Association (AHA), immediate CPR can double or triple a person’s chances of survival after cardiac arrest, yet only about 40% of people who experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest receive the immediate help that they need before professional help arrives; and
WHEREAS: CPR classes can be taught in just 30 to 45 minutes, making them a quick and accessible way to equip students with lifesaving skills; and
WHEREAS: 41 states have recognized the importance of CPR training by mandating it for high school students, making Massachusetts one of only nine states that does not require it for high school graduation; and
WHEREAS: Massachusetts legislators have introduced five bills that seek to make CPR and AED training a requirement in high schools across the commonwealth:
S.447, An Act providing hands only CPR training and the use of defibrillators
S.456, An Act requiring instruction in CPR and the use of defibrillators for high school graduation
H.556, An Act providing CPR and AED Education for All, AKA The CPR and AED Education for All Act
H.572, An Act relative to cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automatic defibrillator education in public schools;
H.750, An Act p...
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