(SACRAMENTO) In celebration of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week which takes place this year from May 15th – May 21st, Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) is hosting a free CPR training course in partnership with American Medical Response and Montclair Police Department Saturday. Students will receive hands-on training and certification good for 2 years upon completion.
“The time it takes to learn CPR is nothing compared to the reward a person can feel when they save someone’s life,” said Rodriguez. “Fewer than 3 percent of Americans take a CPR class each year. I want to do my part to increase that number.”
Assemblymember Rodriguez has been an emergency medical technician in the San Gabriel Valley for over 30 years. Even while serving in the State Legislature, he still works shift on an ambulance when his schedule allows.
Rodriguez’ background in emergency medical services led him to introduce legislation to require CPR training in high school. Assembly Bill 1719 will ensure California’s high school students learn this critical skill, empowering them to act when an emergency arises. Similar legislation has been passed in 31 other states. The bill is set to be heard in the Assembly Appropriations Committee on May 27th.
“California is falling behind the rest of the nation,” said Rodriguez. “Including CPR instruction in high school is a common sense approach to ensuring our students are equipped with basic life skills. I urge my colleagues to support my legislation.”