S.278

The Smart Heart Act

Introduced·3/12/25

North Carolina S278 mandates public schools to develop cardiac emergency response plans and install AEDs.

North Carolina S278, known as the Smart Heart Act, requires public secondary schools to develop cardiac emergency response plans, including the installation, maintenance, and use of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs). The act allocates $2 million for AED purchases and training. It mandates that AEDs be placed according to American Heart Association guidelines, with appropriate signage and accessible within three minutes. The plans must integrate with local emergency service providers and include annual training for staff, particularly school nurses and athletic supervisors.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Appropriations/Base Budget Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

D
1
4
RRRR
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

Mar 13, 2025

Senate

Passed 1st Reading

Mar 13, 2025

Senate

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

Mar 13, 2025

Senate

Withdrawn From Com