Connecticut Senate Bill SB00795

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/19
• Refer: 1/30/19
• Report Pass: 2/13/19
• Refer: 2/21/19
• Report Pass: 2/27/19
• Refer: 4/17/19
• Report Pass: 4/22/19
• Report Pass: 4/24/19
• Engrossed: 6/5/19
• Report Pass: 6/5/19
• Chaptered: 6/20/19
• Enrolled: 6/24/19
• Passed: 7/1/19

Caption

An Act Concerning The Use Of Automatic External Defibrillators.

Impact

The bill is expected to enhance public safety by promoting the use of AEDs, especially in public places where cardiac emergencies might occur. By alleviating concerns about legal repercussions, the legislation encourages citizens to step forward and provide assistance without fear of liability. Additionally, it mandates that individuals such as firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical personnel continue to undergo training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of AEDs, thereby improving the overall preparedness of the community in handling cardiac emergencies.

Summary

Senate Bill 00795, also referred to as Public Act No. 19-113, focuses on the use of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) and aims to provide legal protections for individuals and entities that use or maintain these devices during emergency situations. It stipulates that laypersons who voluntarily assist in providing emergency care using AEDs will not be held civilly liable for injuries that may result from their actions, except in cases of gross negligence. This legislation is designed to encourage more bystanders to intervene in emergencies, potentially saving lives through the use of AEDs.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment towards SB 00795 appears positive, with wide bipartisan support noted during voting, as indicated by the 138 yeas to 10 nays in the recent house vote. Supporters view the bill as a crucial step towards improving emergency response measures and encouraging a culture of preparedness among the public. Concerns were voiced by some minority voices regarding the adequacy of training for all users of AEDs, although the majority sentiment reflects assurance that the bill will enhance community safety and save lives.

Contention

Despite broad support, there were points of contention regarding the extent of liability protections and the clarity of training requirements. Critics feared that blanket immunity might lead to misuse of AEDs without sufficient training. They argued for a balanced approach that promotes the use of AEDs while ensuring that those who use them do so competently and with adequate knowledge of their operation. Nonetheless, the general consensus seems to lean towards emphasizing the importance of saving lives and empowering civilians to respond to emergencies.