AED Requirements in New Mexico
New Mexico requires every public, charter and private school to have a cardiac emergency response plan and to install an AED that is maintained and tested, with an AED clearly marked and easily accessible during each school athletic activity (NMSA 1978, § 22-33-6). Public non-charter high schools must comply by the 2026-2027 school year, and elementary, middle, charter and private schools by the 2027-2028 school year.
New Mexico AED Law Overview
New Mexico requires every public, charter and private school to have a cardiac emergency response plan and to install an AED that is maintained and tested, with an AED clearly marked and easily accessible during each school athletic activity (NMSA 1978, § 22-33-6). Public non-charter high schools must comply by the 2026-2027 school year, and elementary, middle, charter and private schools by the 2027-2028 school year.
Every year, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the United States. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival drops by 7-10%. Having an AED on-site and trained staff ready to use it can mean the difference between life and death.
Whether New Mexico mandates AED placement for your organization or not, the investment in an AED program protects your employees, customers, and community — and can significantly reduce liability exposure.
Specific Requirements
- Public non-charter high schools: a cardiac emergency response plan and an installed, maintained and tested AED by the 2026-2027 school year (NMSA 1978, § 22-33-6)
- Elementary, middle, charter and private schools: the same plan and AED by the 2027-2028 school year (NMSA 1978, § 22-33-6)
- All schools: an AED clearly marked and easily accessible during each school athletic activity (NMSA 1978, § 22-33-6, as amended by Laws 2026, chapter 66)
- Anyone who acquires an AED: a trained person to oversee the AED program, CPR and AED training for responders, maintenance and testing, and notice to local EMS and 911 agencies (NMSA 1978, § 24-10C-4, as amended by Laws 2015, chapter 33)
Sources
- Laws 2025, chapter 129 (House Bill 54), NMSA 1978 § 22-33-6
- Laws 2026, chapter 66 (House Bill 256)
- Laws 2015, chapter 33 (Senate Bill 189), NMSA 1978 § 24-10C-4
These summaries were last checked against the official sources above in October 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Other state or local rules may also apply; check the current law or ask an attorney about your organization.
Who Needs an AED in New Mexico?
Offices & Workplaces
Corporate offices, coworking spaces, and business parks
The American Heart Association reports that 10,000 cardiac arrests occur in the workplace each year. Having an AED can increase survival rates by up to 70%.
Schools & Universities
K-12 schools, colleges, and educational institutions
Student athletes and staff are at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Many states now mandate AEDs in schools.
Gyms & Fitness Centers
Health clubs, yoga studios, CrossFit boxes, and recreation centers
Intense physical activity can trigger cardiac events. Most states require AEDs in fitness facilities.
Churches & Places of Worship
Churches, synagogues, mosques, and community halls
Large gatherings of all ages, often with elderly congregants, make AEDs essential for community safety.
Restaurants & Hotels
Restaurants, hotels, resorts, and hospitality venues
High foot traffic and diverse demographics make AEDs critical for guest safety and liability protection.
Construction & Industrial Sites
Construction sites, warehouses, manufacturing plants
Physical labor, heat stress, and remote locations make rapid cardiac response critical.
Sports Facilities
Stadiums, arenas, sports complexes, and athletic fields
Athletes of all ages face cardiac risks during high-intensity activity.
Medical & Dental Offices
Doctor offices, dental practices, outpatient clinics
Even in medical settings, an AED provides immediate response before advanced care arrives.
New Mexico AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for New Mexico Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
Budget-friendly reliability. Clear audio/visual prompts and rugged design for any environment.
View Details →New Mexico AED FAQs
Is an AED required in New Mexico?
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Protect Your New Mexico Business Today
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