The New Mexico Senate Finance Committee convened on March 16, 2025, to discuss House Bill 54, which aims to enhance cardiac emergency preparedness in schools by mandating the installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and training for staff members. The meeting began with Representative Herndon introducing the bill, emphasizing the importance of AEDs in high schools and the need for clarity on associated costs.

Mahesh Sita from the American Heart Association provided an overview of the bill, which seeks to include AEDs in the Emergency Medication in Schools Act. The legislation would require schools to develop a cardiac emergency response plan, ensuring that more than just coaches are trained to use AEDs. The discussion highlighted the historical context, noting that previous legislation had already mandated training for coaches.

Committee members raised questions regarding the operational aspects of AEDs, including their safety and effectiveness. Sita reassured members that AEDs are designed to assess a person's condition and administer shocks only when necessary, minimizing the risk of misuse. The cost of each AED was discussed, with estimates ranging from $1,200 to $2,000, and the total training costs projected at $780,000.

Concerns were also voiced about the implementation of the program, particularly regarding the maintenance of AEDs and the training of school staff. The committee discussed the necessity of a structured plan to ensure that AEDs are regularly checked and maintained, with suggestions for reminders to schools about upkeep.

Senator Lanier raised a legal concern regarding liability for staff using AEDs in emergencies, to which it was clarified that New Mexico's Good Samaritan law provides some protection for individuals acting in good faith to save lives.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of AEDs in schools and the need for a comprehensive approach to training and maintenance. The committee plans to continue discussions on funding and implementation strategies in future sessions.