New Maine Law Mandates AED Access at School-Sponsored Sports

Starting this fall, school boards across Maine will be required to put formal plans in place to ensure automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are accessible at school-sponsored athletic events.

According to WGME 13, in addition to making AEDs available, schools must also develop cardiac emergency response plans outlining how staff and volunteers should respond if a cardiac emergency occurs during a game, practice, or other athletic activity. The new requirement applies statewide and is aimed at improving emergency preparedness and response times during critical situations.

The news station said that AEDs are portable medical devices designed to deliver an electric shock to a person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, helping the heart re-establish a normal rhythm. When used quickly, AEDs can significantly increase survival rates.

The legislation was introduced and passed by the Maine Legislature last year following a real-life emergency at Kennebunk High School. In November 2024, an AED was used during a football game to help save the life of a spectator who suffered a cardiac event.

Lawmakers cited that incident as a powerful example of why AED access and clear emergency procedures are critical at athletic events where large crowds are present. Supporters of the law say it ensures schools are better prepared to act quickly during life-threatening emergencies.

School districts are expected to finalize their plans ahead of the upcoming fall sports season.