Pennsylvania Expands AED Requirements for School Sports in New Athlete Safety Law

Pennsylvania is joining nearly every other state in strengthening cardiac emergency preparedness for school sports.

A new law signed by Governor Josh Shapiro will require all schools in the state to have an automated external defibrillator (AED) accessible during athletic practices and events, along with expanded CPR and AED training requirements for school staff.

The law was inspired by the death of 15-year-old basketball player Greg Moyer, who suffered cardiac arrest during a game two decades ago when no AED was available on site.

For many Athletic Trainers, the changes reinforce protocols already in place.

“I will say that every athletic event has an athletic trainer who has an AED with them,” said State College Area School District Athletic Director Loren Crispell.

Under the new law, coaches, school nurses, marching band directors, physical education teachers, and Athletic Trainers must receive biannual CPR and AED training. Schools will also be required to maintain a formal cardiac emergency response plan and ensure a trained individual is present each school day.

Several school districts noted they already carry AEDs to practices and competitions, with Athletic Trainers often leading emergency preparedness efforts.

Bellefonte Area School District has already started training staff, while Penns Valley Area School District plans to add another Athletic Trainer next year to further support compliance.

The law highlights something Athletic Trainers have long understood: when cardiac emergencies happen, preparation and rapid response matter most.

As more schools strengthen emergency protocols nationwide, Athletic Trainers continue playing a central role in keeping athletes safe both on and off the field. Read the full story here!