SALT LAKE CITY, March 31, 2026 — The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, is celebrating new legislation as public health victories for Utahns. These policy wins will help protect lives, strengthen families and improve health outcomes across the state.
“From lifesaving protections in schools to stronger support for families and new mothers, this session delivered meaningful progress for the health and well-being of Utahns,” said Dr. Lee Chung, President, American Heart Association Utah Board of Directors and Telestroke Director, Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah Health. “These wins are the result of working closely with lawmakers and partnership organizations, as well as the tireless efforts of advocates across the state.”
Key legislative wins include:
SB244 – Cardiac Emergency Response Plans in Schools
Sponsored by Senator Jerry Stevenson, Senate Bill 244 requires all Utah schools to have a cardiac emergency response plan in place by fall 2026. This lifesaving policy ensures schools are equipped with well-maintained, easy-to-access automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and that staff are prepared to respond when every second counts. The American Heart Association also helped secure $200,000 in funding to assist schools with purchasing AEDs.
HB329 – Expanded Paid Family Leave for State Employees
Sponsored by Representative Ariel Defay, House Bill 329 expands Utah’s state employee paid family leave program to nine weeks and adds paid leave for adoptive and foster parents. Paid family leave allows families time to bond with a new child and adjust to major life changes. Research consistently shows that access to paid family leave leads to healthier babies and mothers.
Protection of Postpartum Medicaid Coverage
Advocacy endeavors also helped protect Medicaid coverage for new mothers for 12 months postpartum, ensuring continued access to critical health care during an especially vulnerable period for maternal health.
While legislation to significantly raise Utah’s tobacco tax was introduced this session, the final version passed at a substantially reduced rate that falls short of what is needed to meaningfully reduce tobacco and nicotine addiction. Throughout the session, the American Heart Association worked to elevate awareness of the urgent need for strong, evidence‑based tobacco tax policy.
Throughout the session, advocates from across Utah sent messages, made phone calls and met directly with state lawmakers in support of these policies.
“The voices of advocates made a real difference,” Dr. Chung added. “Together, we are building a healthier future for Utah.”
To support the Association’s work in Utah, join the HeartPowered network by texting Utah to 46839. Members will receive regular updates about our local and statewide efforts.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us in Utah on heart.org/utah, Facebook, Instagram, X or by calling 801-702-4420.
For Media Inquiries:
Jennifer Merback: 801-201-2489; jennifer.merback@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
