Who does AB 310 apply to?

The Act applies to a “youth sports organization,” a term defined elsewhere in the Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act. Organizations should evaluate whether their activities fall within that statutory definition, including businesses or organizations conducting amateur sports competition, training, camps, or clubs involving participants age 17 or younger.

Who needs CPR/AED certification?

Beginning January 1, 2027, a covered youth sports organization must ensure that its coaches are certified to perform CPR and operate an AED. The requirement is written in terms of the organization’s “coaches,” not merely one designated person at a practice or event.

Do assistant coaches need to be certified?

If an assistant is functioning as a coach—such as being appointed to supervise or instruct youth participants—the organization should treat that role consistently with the Act’s coach requirements. Organizations should evaluate actual duties, not just the job title.

I’m a parent who occasionally helps during practice or class. Do I need to be certified?

Not every parent who lends a hand is automatically a coach. The answer depends on the role being performed. A parent who only helps with check-in, equipment, or an occasional non-instructional task is different from a parent who regularly instructs children, supervises drills, demonstrates techniques, runs part of practice, or otherwise performs coaching duties. Because informal roles can vary, organizations should evaluate the person’s actual responsibilities.

What if we call someone a volunteer, helper, instructor, or assistant instead of a coach?

A title alone should not be relied upon to determine compliance. If a volunteer or helper is actually performing the organization’s coaching, instructional, or supervisory role with youth athletes, the organization should evaluate that person under the statutory coach definition and its compliance procedures.

When do coaches need to be certified?

The coach CPR/AED certification requirement begins January 1, 2027.

How often must coaches renew their certification?

AB 310 requires coaches to be recertified every two years.

What kind of CPR/AED training qualifies?

The statute says certified training may be conducted in person or online and must be offered by an accredited organization consistent with national evidence-based cardiovascular care guidelines. Organizations should retain documentation of each coach’s current certification.

Does AB 310 require a written cardiac emergency response plan?

Yes. Beginning January 1, 2027, covered organizations must have a written cardiac emergency response plan. The plan must address AED locations and sudden cardiac arrest procedures; responsibilities of coaches, administration, and athletes; how those individuals are notified and trained; and required annual communication to parents or guardians.

Does the cardiac emergency response plan have to be reviewed?

Yes. The written plan must be reviewed annually with coaches and staff.

Do parents and guardians have to receive information about the plan?

Yes. The statute requires an annual electronic communication to parents or guardians of enrolled participants that includes the plan or an internet link to it, AED location information, and identification of staff members designated to be notified during a sudden cardiac event.

Are we required to have an AED at every practice and match?

Beginning January 1, 2028, a covered youth sports organization that offers an athletic program must ensure athletes have access to an AED during any official practice or match, subject to the statute’s provisions. Organizations should evaluate AED placement and response time as part of advance planning.

Who is responsible for maintaining and testing the AED?

Beginning January 1, 2028, the youth sports organization must ensure its AED is maintained and tested according to the manufacturer’s operation and maintenance guidelines and applicable state and federal requirements.

What should our organization be doing now?

California JPIA recommends that organizations begin identifying employees, volunteers, and coaches who will require CPR/AED certification; develop or update the written cardiac emergency response plan; establish annual communication and training procedures; evaluate AED availability; budget for equipment, maintenance, inspections, and training; and review third-party agreements. JPIA specifically notes that reviewing third-party agreements is a risk-management recommendation, not a statutory requirement.

 

Sources & Important Note

Primary authority: California Health & Safety Code § 124238.5 and the Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act, including AB 310 (Chapter 254, Statutes of 2025). Supporting risk-management guidance: California Joint Powers Insurance Authority, “Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act: Key Compliance Dates for Public Agencies.”