Senate Bill 2162, introduced in Mississippi on January 20, 2025, aims to enhance emergency response protocols for cardiac arrest and choking incidents occurring during school athletic events. The bill mandates the establishment of a Comprehensive Cardiac and Choking Emergency Response Plan (CCERP) in schools, ensuring that students and staff are better prepared for life-threatening emergencies.

Key provisions of the bill include the formation of a dedicated emergency response team within schools, activation protocols for responding to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) or choking emergencies, and guidelines for the placement and maintenance of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and Airway Clearance Devices (ACDs). Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of ongoing staff training in CPR, AED, and ACD usage, as well as the necessity of conducting annual drills to practice these emergency responses.

The bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and education officials regarding its potential impact on student safety and health. Proponents argue that the implementation of the CCERP could significantly reduce fatalities associated with cardiac events and choking incidents in schools. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the financial implications of training and equipment maintenance, questioning whether schools have the necessary resources to comply with the new requirements.

The significance of Senate Bill 2162 lies in its potential to save lives and improve emergency preparedness in Mississippi schools. By integrating evidence-based practices recommended by organizations such as the American Heart Association, the bill seeks to create a standardized approach to handling medical emergencies in educational settings. As the legislative process continues, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress and its implications for school safety protocols across the state.