SR0030 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0030 LRB104 09394 ECR 19453 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Sudden cardiac arrest and other medical emergencies are leading causes of death in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Emergency medical situations, including cardiac arrest, choking, and severe injuries, can occur at any time; and

WHEREAS, The immediate application of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid can significantly improve survival rates and outcomes according to the American Heart Association; and

WHEREAS, The health, safety, and well-being of students are of paramount importance to the State of Illinois, making it important to ensure that young learners are equipped with life-saving skills that can make a critical difference in emergency situations; and

WHEREAS, Equipping young individuals as early as kindergarten with age-appropriate, life-saving skills, including basic first aid and emergency response protocols, helps foster a sense of responsibility, confidence, and preparedness; and

WHEREAS, Research indicates that children are capable of learning life-saving techniques when these skills are introduced in an age-appropriate and developmentally tailored manner; and

WHEREAS, Studies have demonstrated that early, repeated education on CPR, first aid, and other life-saving skills can empower students to act confidently in emergencies, increasing the likelihood of positive outcomes for those in distress; and

WHEREAS, Incorporating life-saving education into the school curriculum aligns with the State's mission to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for real-world challenges; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we affirm the value of incorporating age-appropriate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), first aid, and life-saving skills into the curriculum for students from kindergarten through eighth grade; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we recognize that collaboration with medical providers and emergency response organizations could prove beneficial to the development of guidelines and resources, ensuring these age appropriate lessons are delivered effectively and safely; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we recognize that the prioritization of interactive, hands-on learning opportunities have proven effective in engaging students and making lessons impactful while maintaining adherence to safety standards; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we recognize the importance of making life-saving education an integral part of preparing young people to be not only good students but also responsible and compassionate citizens capable of responding effectively in times of crisis.