TRENTON, N.J. — Legislation that would require portable anti-choking devices in schools has advanced in the New Jersey Senate after receiving approval from the Senate Education Committee.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Kristin M. Corrado, R-Passaic, Bergen, Essex, and Sen. Parker Space, R-Sussex, Morris, Warren, would require school nurses and staff to receive training on how to use the devices and establish policies for responding to choking emergencies.
Under the proposal, portable anti-choking devices would be required to be available in locations such as school cafeterias, nurse’s offices or other designated areas. The devices would be provided to schools at no cost to the state or school districts, according to the legislation.
Supporters say the measure is intended to help schools respond quickly during choking emergencies.
“Every second counts in an emergency, and this bill ensures that schools are prepared to act swiftly and effectively,” Corrado said in a statement. “With trained staff and devices in designated areas, we can be better prepared to respond to a choking emergency.”
Space said the legislation would help improve student safety.
“No parent should ever have to worry about their child being at risk of choking while at school,” Space said. “This bill is a vital step toward ensuring that every school is prepared to keep students safe in any situation.”
