Beginning August 1, 2026, Arizona law requires certain public schools with high school grades and athletic programs to provide automated external defibrillators, commonly called AEDs.
A.R.S. 15-120.07 covers an Arizona public school when it both:
- provides instruction in any of grades 9 through 12; and
- sponsors an athletic team or sports program.
The law does not state that it applies to every private school or youth sports organization. This article provides general information, not legal advice. School leaders should confirm their compliance plans with their district, charter organization or legal counsel.
What does the law require?
A covered school must provide an AED at each school campus and at each school-sponsored athletic event covered by the statute. Each AED must be:
- in an unlocked, clearly marked location;
- easily accessible during the school day and covered athletic events;
- positioned so it can be promptly retrieved and used;
- placed consistently with guidance from a nationally recognized organization focused on emergency cardiovascular care; and
- maintained in good working order and tested according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
For this law, a school-sponsored athletic event is an event on a school campus related to a sport or other athletic activity in which students participate. Scheduled practices, training sessions and competitions are included.
The statute does not select a particular AED brand, prescribe one device for every building or state that every off-campus event is covered.
What should schools review now?
Owning an AED is only useful when the device is ready and people can reach it. Schools should review:
- campus buildings, fields, gyms and after-hours access;
- whether simultaneous events occur far apart;
- the condition and expiration dates of pads and batteries;
- adult and pediatric needs;
- cabinets, signs and portable carrying options; and
- who is responsible for inspections and replacement supplies.
An AED locked inside an office that closes before evening practice may be on campus but unavailable when it is needed. Schools that already own AEDs should check device status, supplies, accessibility and placement before assuming their program is ready.
How LP Health Directions can help
LP Health Directions helps schools move from a legal requirement to a practical AED plan.
- Complimentary existing-AED assessment: An AED technician can evaluate existing devices, pads and batteries and identify items that may need replacement or follow-up.
- Free campus planning visit: We can review the campus and athletic areas and recommend how many AEDs may be appropriate and where they should be placed for practical access.
- AED purchasing or leasing: Schools can compare devices, compatible supplies, cabinets, signage and leasing options.
- AED management: Our management program includes monthly inspections, physician oversight and discounted CPR and first-aid training. Management also includes free battery and pad replacement as needed.
The right starting point is the school’s actual campus, schedule and existing equipment. It is not a one-size-fits-all device count.
Contact LP Health Directions to request a complimentary AED assessment or campus visit. You can also explore AED Solutions or plan CPR and AED training for staff.
Sources
- Arizona Legislature, A.R.S. 15-120.07: High school sports; automatic external defibrillators; definitions
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Automated External Defibrillators
- American Heart Association, Cardiac Emergency Response Plans for Schools
Reviewed September 11, 2026. This article should be updated if the statute or official implementation guidance changes.