A Major Step Forward: Cardiac Emergency Plans in Mississippi Schools

In April 2024, Mississippi too a major step to protect student safety by passing Senate Bill 2349, landmark legislation requiring schools to prepare for cardiac emergencies.

Senator Nicole Boyd (R-Oxford) authored the bill, and Representative Kent McCarty (R-Hattiesburg) led efforts in the House. Lawmakers approved the bill on April 12, and Governor Tate Reeves signed it into law on April 19, 2024.

The law requires all public schools to develop and implement Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERPs) starting in the 2024–2025 school year. These plans guide schools on how to respond to sudden cardiac arrest. They outline steps like calling 911, starting CPR, and using an automated external defibrillator (AED). Schools must also coordinate with local emergency responders and train staff.

This marks an important, life-saving step forward.

From Policy to Practice

For the first time, schools across Mississippi are expected to have a clear, organized approach to responding to cardiac emergencies. This applies in the classroom, on the playground, and during athletic events. When every second matters, that level of preparedness can save lives.

But passing the law was only the beginning.

As schools begin to put these plans into action, two critical next steps are becoming clear. Schools need funding to fully implement CERPs, and the state must strengthen policies that improve access to AEDs.

What Schools Need to Be Ready

Effective emergency response requires more than a written plan. Schools must be able to train staff, run drills, maintain AEDs, and coordinate closely with local emergency responders. Without dedicated funding, implementation may vary—leaving gaps in preparedness, especially in under-resourced communities.

At the same time, early implementation is highlighting another key reality: a plan is only as strong as the tools available to carry it out. In a cardiac emergency, responders must be able to quickly locate and use an AED. If devices are too far away, difficult to access, or unavailable during certain hours, valuable time can be lost.

Looking Ahead to 2027

Looking ahead, Mississippi has an opportunity to build on the success of Senate Bill 2349. The 2027 legislative session will be a key moment to consider dedicated funding to support full implementation of CERPs, along with potential improvements to ensure AEDs are accessible when seconds matter most.

Mississippi has taken a powerful first step. Now, the focus shifts to making sure every school has both the resources and the infrastructure needed to respond effectively in a cardiac emergency.

Because when a life is on the line, preparation must already be in place.