Together, We Can Save Lives from Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac Arrest can strike anytime, anywhere – at home, at work, or in your community. More than 350,000 people suffer a cardiac arrest each year. If someone nearby starts CPR and uses an available automated external defibrillator (AED), it can double or triple a victim’s chances of survival. But right now, only 40% of people step in to help. This American Heart Month, the American Heart Association is highlighting the importance of knowing how to save a life. If someone nearby suffers a cardiac arrest, you can be the first responder until help arrives.

For years, advocates have been pursuing policies that expand CPR training and access to AEDs. At the end of 2024, a bill was signed into law that would help bring these resources to schools. The HEARTS Act created a federal grant program to help schools purchase and maintain AEDs, provide CPR training for teachers, students & staff, and  develop a plan for a cardiac emergency on their campus. American Heart Association Heart Powered advocates have asked Congress to fund this grant program.

Unfortunately, the grant program authorized by the HEARTS Act was not funded in the most recent budget passed by Congress. Still, there was some good news: the bill included $1 million for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention. The agency plans to use this money to support initial implementation of the HEARTS Act.

Up to 23,000 young people suffer a cardiac arrest each year. Equipping our schools with the tools to help save lives is an essential step in creating a Nation of Lifesavers. We can’t stop now. Thousands of you have called, emailed or met with your lawmaker to ask for their support to save lives from cardiac arrest. This year, we will continue to advocate for full funding for the HEARTS Act, and we will need your voice.