Cardiac Emergency Response Plans and Automated External Defibrillators; expand access and provide funding.

SB 2491 requires all Mississippi public schools to develop cardiac emergency response plans (CERPs) by the 2024-2025 school year, with specific provisions for athletic venues by 2026-2027. It mandates that schools place automated external defibrillators (AEDs) within three minutes of athletic venues, ensure staff have current CPR/AED training from recognized organizations, and integrate plans with local emergency services. The bill allocates $2.5 million in state funding specifically for CERP implementation, prioritizing high-needs schools (where at least 50% of students qualify for free/reduced meals) to purchase AEDs, training materials, and support maintenance. Schools may also accept donations for AEDs meeting FDA standards and related training costs.