New Jersey Assembly Bill A4874

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/26/24
• Refer: 9/26/24

Caption

Requires DOH to establish guidelines for placement of bleeding control kits in State buildings; requires schools to acquire bleeding control kits.

Impact

In addition to state buildings, A4874 requires both public and nonpublic schools serving grades K-12 to acquire and maintain bleeding control kits. Schools must ensure these kits are accessible during school hours and at any time when school-sponsored events or practices occur. The legislation aims to enhance emergency preparedness within schools, recognizing the critical nature of being equipped to address severe injuries that could occur on school grounds.

Summary

A4874, introduced in the New Jersey legislature, mandates the establishment of guidelines for the placement of bleeding control kits in all state buildings. The bill defines a 'bleeding control kit' as a first aid response kit containing essential items necessary to manage severe bleeding in traumatic injury cases. It emphasizes the importance of immediate access to these kits, with specific provisions for their proximity to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and other emergency response tools. The Commissioner of Health is tasked with formulating these guidelines, ensuring that all state agencies adopt them within 180 days following the bill's enactment.

Contention

A notable aspect of the bill revolves around the adequacy and placement of the required supplies in these bleeding control kits. While the mandate to carry these kits is generally viewed as a positive measure for health and safety, there may be discussions regarding the specific items included in the kits and their accessibility. Critics may voice concerns about the funding and logistical implications of acquiring and maintaining these kits in all required locations, as well as the potential for inconsistent implementation across various state agencies and school districts.