MONTGOMERY, Ala., Jan. 14, 2026 — The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, announces its public policy agenda for the 2026 Alabama legislative session.

The American Heart Association has invested more than $5 billion in research and currently funds more than $20 million in Alabama. The Association’s advocacy team works with leaders and advocates across Alabama to identify federal, state and local laws that build healthier communities to prevent heart disease and stroke, the No. 1 and 4 killers of Alabamians, respectively.

The Association has identified the following areas as statewide priorities during the upcoming legislative session, which began Jan. 13:

  • Sudden Cardiac Arrest Screening for Athletes
    The Association is advocating for the enactment of a statewide policy that requires the pre-screening of student-athletes, following the guidelines set by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology.
  • CPR in Schools
    By securing funding to purchase CPR kits for schools, we can ensure that Alabama students are empowered to act in an emergency, whether at home, school, or in their community.
  • Self-Measured Blood Pressure Monitoring (SMBP)
    High blood pressure is the easiest modifiable risk factor for better heart health, but it often goes unnoticed. Self-measured blood pressure monitoring (SMBP) allows people to track their numbers at home, giving them more control over their health. Supporting Medicaid coverage for these devices will help patients manage hypertension more effectively. When paired with clinical support, SMBP can lead to better blood pressure control and improved long-term outcomes.
  • Healthy School Meals for All
    Nutritious meals help kids learn, grow, and thrive. By expanding access to free, nutritious school meals through programs like the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), healthy meals can be accessible to every student.

“The American Heart Association, our volunteers and advocates urge Alabama lawmakers to prioritize these essential policies to improve the health of all Alabamians,” said Dr. Nicole Lohr, director of the Division of Cardiovascular Disease at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and president of the American Heart Association Board of Directors in Birmingham. “Together, we can work to reduce the number of deaths caused by heart disease, expand access to life-saving healthcare, and promote healthier communities across our state.”

Additionally, the Association is advocating to secure funds for the Double Up Food Bucks program alongside additional programs to provide fruits and vegetables to Alabama families, as well as continuing to support Medicaid expansion for the thousands of Alabamians caught in the health care coverage gap.

The American Heart Association will also host its annual Lobby Day in Montgomery on March 3. Volunteers and advocates are invited to learn about the Association's policy efforts and meet with lawmakers about the importance and impact of these policies.

To learn more or become involved with the American Heart Association’s advocacy efforts, visit heartpowered.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:

Josh Till, APR:  josh.till@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org