Local Senator Writes Bill to Require AEDs on Public Lands

(KNSI) — A bill introduced at the Capitol this week would fund the purchase and installation of Automated External Defibrillators in state parks, rest stops, and schools.

Rockville area Senator Jeff Howe, a former first responder, wrote the bill. He says the chances of survival decrease about 10% for every minute that passes without treatment during sudden cardiac arrest. In the case of cardiac arrest emergencies occurring in public outdoor spaces, installing these AED cabinets would increase accessibility to life-saving tools.

“Sudden cardiac arrests kill around 1,000 people per day, and these attacks can happen at any time. Unfortunately, many outdoor parks and spaces aren’t equipped with AEDs for this deadly emergency. This bill will allow Advocates for Health to install AEDs in external cabinets throughout various outdoor recreation areas across the state.

“It’s estimated that 95% percent of victims suffering from a sudden cardiac arrest die before reaching the hospital. No one plans to have a heart attack, least of all when hiking or recreating in one of our state parks. By installing these units, we can save lives.”

Howe says the cabinets would be heated in the winter and cooled in the summer to prevent any damage from the elements. Units would also be equipped with a tracking device to ensure the systems are not stolen.

This bill was heard in the Senate Environment Finance committee. It was laid over for possible inclusion in the committee’s final omnibus bill.

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