New Jersey Assembly Bill A1167

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires local recreation departments and youth serving organizations to have defibrillators for youth athletic events.

Impact

Beginning September 1, 2020, the bill stipulates that these organizations must have AEDs on site during both practices and events. Compliance is defined not only by the availability of a defibrillator but also through the presence of certified emergency services providers or first responders during the events. This legislation aims to promote a quicker response to potentially life-threatening situations that young athletes might face, thereby improving overall safety standards within youth sports.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1167, also known as the 'Michael Fisher Law,' mandates that local recreation departments and youth-serving organizations equip themselves with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for youth athletic events. This law targets municipal and county recreation departments and nonprofit organizations affiliated with youth events held on publicly-owned fields. The intention behind this requirement is to enhance the safety of young athletes and ensure immediate medical assistance is available in the event of a cardiac emergency during sports activities.

Contention

One notable aspect of the bill is the provision that grants immunity from civil liability to recreation departments, their employees, umpires, coaches, and licensed athletic trainers concerning the acquisition and use of AEDs. This immunity could alleviate concerns regarding legal repercussions associated with using such equipment, which proponents argue is necessary to encourage organizations to comply without fear of lawsuits. However, opponents may raise concerns about the implications of such immunity, particularly regarding accountability and standards of care in emergency situations.