New Mexico Passes Law Strengthening Cardiac Emergency Preparedness in Schools

Legislation requires automated external defibrillators and cardiac emergency response plans in all schools

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:51pm

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The American Heart Association is celebrating the passage of a new law in New Mexico that requires automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to be available during all school athletic activities and integrated into each school's cardiac emergency response plan. The law also mandates that all schools install, maintain and clearly mark AEDs and develop evidence-based cardiac emergency response plans.

Why it matters

Sudden cardiac arrest remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and rapid access to an AED can double or triple a person's chance of survival. More than 23,000 children experience cardiac arrest each year, with nearly 40 percent of those cases tied to sports. This new law in New Mexico aims to better equip schools to respond quickly in these critical situations.

The details

New Mexico House Bill 256 directs the Public Education Department to adopt rules for training school employees on AED use 'in a manner consistent with standards adopted by the American Heart Association.' The legislation phases in implementation across school types during the 2026–2027 and 2027–2028 school years.

  • HB 256 was signed into law on March 10, 2026 by New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.
  • The law will be implemented across school types during the 2026–2027 and 2027–2028 school years.

The players

Michelle Lujan Grisham

The governor of New Mexico who signed HB 256 into law.

Pamelya Herndon

A state representative and one of the primary sponsors of HB 256.

Yanira Gurrola

A state representative and co-sponsor of HB 256.

Mahesh Sita

The government relations director for the American Heart Association in New Mexico.

American Heart Association

A relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities.

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What they’re saying

“By signing HB 256, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham demonstrates a strong commitment to the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and community. The legislation empowers schools to take proactive steps, equipping staff with the training and resources needed to save lives in critical situations. I am proud to have been one of the sponsors of this legislation.”

— Pamelya Herndon, State Representative

“This is an important and practical step to protect the health and safety of our students and families. Having defibrillators at school athletic events will help us to save lives and prevent tragedies.”

— Yanira Gurrola, State Representative

“New Mexico's leaders have taken the bold, lifesaving action our children deserve. This new law ensures that every school is better equipped to respond when seconds matter most.”

— Mahesh Sita, Government Relations Director, American Heart Association in New Mexico

What’s next

The American Heart Association will continue working with state agencies and school districts to support implementation, training and public awareness efforts as the law takes effect.

The takeaway

This new law in New Mexico is an important step in protecting the health and safety of students by ensuring schools are better equipped to respond to sudden cardiac emergencies. The requirement for AEDs and cardiac emergency response plans could help save lives in critical situations.