BILL REQ. #:  S-4218.1 

Read first time 01/31/12.   Referred to Committee on Early Learning & K-12 Education.

     AN ACT Relating to requiring the establishment of an automated external defibrillator program for each high school in the state; and adding new sections to chapter 28A.150 RCW.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 28A.150 RCW to read as follows:
     The use of automated external defibrillators has been demonstrated to save lives including those of young athletes pursuing athletic activities. Therefore, it is the intent of the legislature to promote the timely and appropriate use of automated external defibrillators in settings where school athletic events occur.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   A new section is added to chapter 28A.150 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) The superintendent of public instruction, in consultation with school districts, shall develop and implement an automated external defibrillator program for each high school in the state.
     (2) The automated external defibrillator program shall:
     (a) Ensure that an automated external defibrillator is provided on-site; and
     (b) An individual trained in the operation and use of an automated external defibrillator is present at all school-sponsored athletic events.
     (3) The superintendent, in consultation with the department of health, shall adopt rules that:
     (a) Establish guidelines for periodic inspections and annual maintenance of the automated external defibrillators;
     (b) Assist districts in carrying out the provisions of this section, including procedures to seek grants for the purchase of automated external defibrillators or to seek donations of automated external defibrillators. The superintendent may coordinate with local health districts in seeking grants and donations.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 3   A new section is added to chapter 28A.150 RCW to read as follows:
     The office of the superintendent of public instruction and its employees and agents are not liable for failures to comply with section 2 of this act or for injuries or accidents involving automated external defibrillators.