SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A bill waiting for Gov. JB Pritzker's approval could require high schools to include CPR training on female manikins.

The American Heart Association says women are 27% less likely than men to receive bystander CPR because of hesitation or misconceptions.

This plan requires CPR training on both breasted and non-breasted manikins to ensure students can help anyone during cardiac emergencies.

"I've been CPR certified at least five times in my life, and yet I've never seen a female manikin in a class," said Naperville Central High School graduate Ashlynn Goldstein. "Even when studying my certified nursing assistant program and getting basic life support certification, there was not one single female manikin in the room or a chest cover as an alternative."

House Bill 4788 passed out of the Senate on a 43-13 vote. It received a 73-38 vote in the House. 

This requirement will begin during the 2029-2030 school year if the plan is signed into law.

"When someone's life is on the line, every second counts," said Sen. Laura Ellman (D-Naperville). "More inclusive, realistic CPR training helps people act quickly and save lives. Students should feel confident stepping in during an emergency, no matter who needs help." 

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