Michigan House Bill HB4847

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/4/25
• Refer: 9/4/25

Caption

Torts: liability; immunity for individuals rendering emergency services who apply bleeding control; provide for. Amends sec. 3 of 2006 PA 23 (MCL 333.26313).

Impact

The implications of HB 4847 on state laws could lead to a major transformation in how liability is perceived within health clubs across Michigan. By limiting the liability for health club staff regarding emergency services, the bill intends to encourage more health facilities to install AEDs without the fear of legal repercussions should an emergency situation arise. Although this might lead to more publicly accessible AEDs, it raises questions about the standard of care and the responsibility of health club personnel in emergency scenarios.

Summary

House Bill 4847 seeks to amend the existing law concerning liability for individuals rendering emergency services within health clubs, specifically relating to the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). The bill stipulates that health club owners, operators, or employees will not be held liable for not rendering emergency services to individuals using an AED present on their premises. This amendment is a significant shift in the responsibility held by health clubs when it comes to medical emergencies occurring in their facilities, particularly concerning the use of AEDs.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this bill include concerns regarding the adequacy and expectations of emergency care that should be provided by health club personnel. Critics argue that this law could potentially diminish the urgency and quality of response during medical emergencies, as the lack of liability may reduce the incentive for health club staff to engage actively in providing aid. Furthermore, discussions could arise regarding whether the reduction of liability is appropriate given the critical nature of emergency medical situations.

Further_notes

It is important to note that HB 4847 will only take effect if related legislation, specifically House Bill No. 4108 of the 103rd Legislature, is enacted into law. This conditional enactment shows the interconnected nature of legislation and highlights the legislative intent behind ensuring comprehensive reforms in emergency services within health clubs.