Georgia Senate Bill SB9

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/23
• Refer: 1/24/23

Caption

"Kathleen Cominski Act"; enact

Impact

This legislation will significantly impact health and safety regulations within state offices. By requiring AEDs to be available at all times in buildings housing 100 or more employees, the bill serves to reduce response time in heart-related emergencies, therefore potentially saving lives. Additionally, it entails that designated personnel will be trained to activate emergency medical services promptly after using an AED on an individual experiencing cardiac arrest. The introduction of such measures aligns with public health initiatives aimed at increasing survival rates during cardiac emergencies.

Summary

Senate Bill 9, known as the 'Kathleen Cominski Act', mandates that all state office buildings in Georgia must have at least one functional automated external defibrillator (AED) on site by June 30, 2024. The bill aims to enhance emergency preparedness in public workplaces by ensuring that life-saving equipment is accessible when needed. In addition to the installation requirement, the bill outlines essential training provisions for staff on the proper use of AEDs, emphasizing CPR and defibrillator usage as part of the training curriculum endorsed by recognized organizations like the American Heart Association or American Red Cross.

Contention

A notable point of contention in the discussions surrounding SB9 is the associated liability protections. The bill amends existing laws to provide civil immunity to individuals who use an AED in good faith when assisting someone in cardiac distress, protecting them from liability for any unintended consequences unless gross negligence or willful misconduct is evident. This aspect is crucial as it encourages bystanders and employees to respond to emergencies without the fear of legal repercussions, thus improving the likelihood of timely lifesaving action.