IMPORTANT UPDATE: California AED Requirements Beginning in 2027
Announcement from Little League International
At Little League® International, the safety and well-being of our players, volunteers, and families remains our highest priority. Through initiatives such as Little League SAFE and SAFE to Play, we strive to support local leagues by sharing information, educational materials, and resources that promote safe and positive environments for all participants. Local leagues remain responsible for understanding and complying with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
California Assembly Bill 357
As part of this ongoing commitment, we want to make you aware of a recent change to California law relating to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and youth sports organizations that might impact your local league beginning January 1, 2027.
California recently enacted Assembly Bill 387, which makes changes to the Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act. The law includes requirements that take effect in stages.
Beginning January 1, 2027: Youth Sports organizations are subject to requirements concerning CPR and AED certification for coaches, written cardiac emergency repone plans, annual review of those plans, and annual communication of certain emergency response information to parents and guardians.
Beginning January 1, 2028: Additional requirements address access to operational AEDs during youth sports practices and games. The law also establishes certain responsibilities for public and private sports facilities regarding AED availability, maintenance and accessibility.
We know that keeping players and volunteers safe is a priority for every Little League program, so we wanted to make sure our California leagues are aware of these new requirements and have an opportunity to review them as they prepare for upcoming seasons.
This communication is intended to make leagues aware of the new law and is not intended to interpret its requirements or provide legal advice regarding how the law applies to a particular league or facility. Each local league is solely responsible for complying with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Local leagues are encouraged to review the legislation and consult with their local government officials, facility operators, or legal advisors, as appropriate, to determine how the requirements apply to their programs and facilities.
California Assembly Bill 387, Chaptered Version
State-by-State AED Laws and Regulations
2027 Funding Opportunities
As a reminder, Little League SAFE to Play Grants are available to support funding of AEDs to improve emergency response and preparedness for those leagues who complete the SAFE Summary Builder and submit their Annual Facility Survey. To learn more about Little League SAFE to Play grant opportunities and how your league can apply for funding in 2027 and beyond, please visit LittleLeague.org/SAFE.
Thank you for everything you do to support the safety and well-being of your players, volunteers, and Little League community.
Sincerely,
Little League International