Governor Matt Meyer Ceremonially Signs Bill Requiring CPR, AED Training for DIAA Coaches

DOVER - Last Friday night, Governor Matt Meyer ceremonially signed House Bill 71, which requires all coaches to be trained in CPR, first aid, and the use of defibrillators (AEDs). It also requires schools to have emergency action plans, keep AEDs on-site and easy to access during games and practices, and make sure the equipment is maintained and reported 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 Bill 71, sponsored by House Majority Leader Kerri Evelyn Harris and Sen. Nicole Poore, is designed to help schools respond quickly to cardiac emergencies and protect student athletes.

"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."

"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, Chair of the Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association Task Force. "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 took place at Dover High School's Homecoming football game on the field before the coin toss. One advocate who helped drive the bill across the finish line, Greer Firestone, shared his daughter's story that inspired the legislation. His daughter, Grace, a varsity athlete, suffered from sudden cardiac arrest in 2011, just days after graduating high school. Without CPR or the use of an AED within 15 minutes, death or significant cognitive damage is almost certain. Grace's brother, Grant, was trained in CPR and saved her life. She now has an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD). She also became a doctor.

"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."

"Not every cardiac arrest can be prevented, but lives can be saved with appropriate training, planning, and equipment," Dr. Sean Connolly said, DO, pediatric cardiologist at Nemours Children's Health, Delaware Valley, and national volunteer for the American Heart Association. "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."

"Today's bill signing is a testament to leadership and teamwork," Todd Herremans, former Philadelphia Eagles offensive guard, 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."

For any questions or to schedule a one-on-one interview with Governor Meyer, please email [email protected].