Deuter supports HB3275 mandating cardiac emergency training for Illinois school coaches

Rep. Martha Deuter (D-45th) cast a Yes vote for HB3275, legislation requiring cardiac emergency certification for coaches and plans for schools, during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, according to the Illinois House. The House approved the bill unanimously, 115-0.

Per the bill's official text, the proposal is identified as: "SCH-CARDIAC EMERGENCY RESPONSE."

Below is an explanation based directly on the bill's language, with some interpretation provided to clarify its requirements.

This legislation obligates all paid head coaches or chief sponsors of Illinois interscholastic athletics to earn and keep valid certifications in CPR, first aid, and AED use consistent with national emergency cardiovascular care standards. It also requires school districts and private schools to adopt a cardiac emergency response plan (CERP) aligned with guidance from sources such as the American Heart Association or Project ADAM. The plan must outline cardiac emergency procedures, maintain a list of available AEDs for school and athletic activities, ensure staff are trained, create an emergency response team, and hold annual cardiac drills with EMS personnel. The law is set to take effect Jan. 1, 2025.

The recorded action for HB3275 reads: 'Senate Committee Amendment No. 2 House Concurs.'

Deuter earned her BSW from Ohio University in 1995.

A Democrat, Deuter was elected to the Illinois State House in 2025 representing the 45th District, succeeding former state representative Jenn Ladisch Douglass.

In Illinois, bills proceed through a multi-phase legislative process that involves introduction in either chamber, committee consideration, floor debate, and votes in both the House and Senate before being sent to the governor for a signature or veto. The General Assembly operates on a biennial basis and reviews thousands of measures each session, while only a small percentage are enacted into law.