Today, June 18, 2026, House Bill 27 became law. This legislation requires public schools to teach Hands-Only CPR education to all students before high school graduation and expands how Alaska responds to life-threatening medical emergencies like heart attacks and strokes. The bill had passed the Senate unanimously and the House by a vote of 27-13. The law went into effect without the Governor’s signature.
HB 27 was sponsored by Representative Genevieve Mina (D-Anchorage) and co-sponsored by Representatives Alyse Galvin (NA-Anchorage), Andy Josephson (D-Anchorage), Andrew Gray (D-Anchorage), Andi Story (D-Juneau) and Senators Elvi Gray-Jackson (D-Anchorage) and Matt Claman (D-Anchorage).
Representative Mina commented: “By expanding our statewide trauma system to include strokes and heart attacks, we are ensuring that when life-threatening emergencies strike, Alaskans will receive the right care, from the right person, at the right place and at the exact right time.”
“Integrating CPR education into the school curriculum helps promote a culture of preparedness and responsiveness to medical emergencies,” commented Senator Gray-Jackson, “This legislation ensures that all students have access to this vital life-saving skill and have the confidence to act in a cardiac arrest emergency and help save a life.”
The American Heart Association responded to the passing of the legislation into law: “House Bill 27 becoming a law is a powerful step forward for Alaska. From Anchorage to the most remote communities, this law helps ensure the next generation is ready to step in and save a life when a community member is in need. On top of that, this bill is a double win for Alaska because it will strengthen how Alaska responds to life-threatening medical emergencies like heart attacks and strokes.”
13 Republicans opposed the bill: Representatives Allard (R-Eagle River), Bynum (R-Ketchikan), Costello (R-Anchorage), Coulombe (R-Anchorage), Elam (R-Nikisiki), Johnson (R-Palmer), McCabe (R-Big Lake), Moore (R-Wasilla), Nelson (R-Anchorage), Prax (R-North Pole), Ruffridge (R-Soldotna), Saddler (R-Eagle River), and Schwanke (R-Glenallen). Opposition arguments centered around concerns about funding for training materials and staff and adding extra burdens on public school districts.
Full bill text:
