Las Vegas, Nev. — A bill aimed at protecting student-athletes and saving young lives is one step closer to becoming law. The "Smart Heart Law" (AB454), championed by Dr. Alfred Danielian, a leading Las Vegas cardiologist and the team cardiologist for the Las Vegas Raiders, Golden Knights, Silver Knights, Aces and Aviators, has passed the Nevada State Senate with a unanimous 21-0 vote.
The bill previously passed the Assembly with unanimous support, reflecting a shared commitment from both chambers to improve emergency preparedness in Nevada high schools. The legislation requires all high school athletic venues to have Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on-site and readily accessible so that they can be used within 3 minutes.
The effort was inspired by the tragic passing of 16-year-old Ashari Hughes, who collapsed during a flag football game in Las Vegas last year. Dr. Danielian believes this bill is a critical step toward preventing similar tragedies.
“With unanimous support in both the Assembly and Senate, we are hopeful and optimistic that the Governor will sign this into law,” said Dr. Alfred Danielian. “This is a victory for every student, every family and every community in Nevada. This bill will save lives.”
The "Smart Heart Law" passage would make Nevada one of the few states to require AEDs and cardiac emergency protocols at every high school sports facility.
MountainView Hospital, where Dr. Danielian practices, has been a proud supporter of the initiative, reinforcing its commitment to heart health, emergency readiness and the well-being of our youth.