Advocates Rally Support for Cardiac Emergency Response Plans in Schools, Nutrition Access and Paid Parental Leave at Iowa Capitol
DES MOINES, IA, Feb. 21, 2025 – Dozens of advocates for the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, gathered at the State Capitol on Thursday, Feb. 20, to educate Iowa lawmakers about policies aimed at improving heart and brain health across the state.
A key piece of the Association’s 2025 policy platform includes calling on state legislators to help pass policies requiring a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) in all Iowa public schools.
More than 356,000 people experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital in the United States each year. Without the proper response from people nearby, 90% of these incidents of cardiac arrest will result in death.
Of the 23,000 children who will experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital, about 40% of these events are sports-related. Whether in the classroom or on the playing field, having a plan in place to enable faculty, staff, and students to quickly and correctly respond to a cardiac emergency can save lives. CPR, if performed immediately, can double or triple a person’s chance of survival. In schools with AEDs, approximately 70% of children survive cardiac arrest – 7 times the overall survival rate for children.
Schools are often a gathering place for community events. Parents and community members are often at schools for plays, concerts, and athletic events, so schools having a regularly reviewed and practiced plan can have a tremendous impact.
“It’s a no-brainer. Having plans in place to quickly activate in the event of a cardiac event saves lives. When we have practiced CPR, know to call 911, and know where the nearest AED is located, more people will survive a cardiac arrest,” said Stacy Frelund, government relations director for the American Heart Association.
Advocates also shared information with lawmakers about SF 1012, which would provide $1 million in appropriations to the Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) program. The program makes fresh fruits and vegetables sold at farmers markets, grocery stores, and other participating locations accessible to individuals and families who receive assistance through the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by providing a $1 for $1 match.
“The Double Up Food Bucks Program increases affordable access to healthy foods for Iowans,” said Frelund. “This program is operational at hundreds of locations statewide, and thanks to the investment from the legislature over the past few years, the program has been able to significantly expand it’s footprint across the state to reach more Iowans.”
In addition, Association advocates also shared their support for HSB 78 and SSB 1040, two companion bills that would implement Governor Kim Reynolds’ proposed Paid Parental Leave policy for state government employees. The policy helps provide families with four weeks of income reimbursement after the birth or adoption of a child.
“Too many workers are forced to sacrifice their savings or their jobs when they need time off to bond with a new child,” said Frelund. “All workers, no matter where they live or who their employer is, should have access to paid family and medical leave. Paid leave helps children and families thrive, which improves their overall health and benefits the economy.”
The American Heart Association asks teachers, students, coaches, parents, and the medical community to contact their legislators to let them know these policies are a top priority for our families and community and to make sure Iowa can implement these proven lifesaving and health-improving policies for all. Learn more and get involved at www.yourethecure.org.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Chrissy Meyer; Chrissy.Meyer@Heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
