SALT LAKE CITY — Concerned Utahns gathered at the state Capitol on Tuesday for an event called "Heart on the Hill," advocating for legislation that would require every public school in the state to adopt cardiac emergency response plans.
The American Heart Association says having a plan in place can be the difference between life and death during a cardiac emergency. These plans provide step-by-step guidance for school staff and ensure they are trained to respond quickly when a student or visitor suffers a sudden cardiac event.
Each year, about 23,000 children nationwide experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital. In Utah, 49 children suffered sudden cardiac arrests in 2024. Immediate CPR can double or triple survival chances, and in schools equipped with AEDs, roughly 70% of children survive cardiac arrest.
"My children, for example, have been telling their friends this is something that can happen to one of our classmates, and we should know what to do. It just doesn't happen to people who are older or sicker or already have health problems," said Michelle Martinez, an American Heart Association board member and heart attack survivor.
Organizers also note that schools host sports events, concerts and other community activities, meaning emergency preparedness can protect not just students but staff and visitors as well. Advocates are pushing SB244, which would require all Utah public schools to implement these emergency plans.
Supporters hope the conversations at the Capitol will help move the proposal forward during the legislative session. They say they'll continue to push for the legislation, believing these plans can prevent tragedies and save lives.
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Tyrese Boone
