DETROIT, Michigan — Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed two House Bills into law on Saturday morning requiring comprehensive cardiac emergency response plans in schools — including at their athletic facilities and events.
The event featured the NFL’s Smart Heart Sports Coalition, Buffalo Bills Safety Damar Hamlin’s Chasing M’s Foundation, the American Heart Association and elected officials.
House Bills 5527 and 5528 will go into effect for the 2025-26 school year. In addition to response plans, they add a training requirement for school athletic coaches.
The legislation had passed the state Senate and received approval in the state House on Tuesday.
Michigan now joins Florida, Georgia and Kansas, among other states, that've created legislation to address cardiac events in schools.
“Today is another big step in our ongoing work to keep people safe across Michigan. With the signing of this legislation, we’re ensuring that every school has the tools and the knowledge needed to save those who may suffer from a cardiac emergency,” said State Representative John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming).
The NFL also donated 50 AEDs to Michigan schools.
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