New Jersey Assembly Bill A2080

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires institution of higher education to have automatic external defibrillator on premises of each athletic facility and student center.

Impact

The bill is anticipated to enhance student safety on college campuses, particularly during athletic activities where the risk of cardiac events may be higher. By ensuring the presence of AEDs and requiring trained personnel, institutions will be better equipped to respond to emergencies swiftly, potentially saving lives. The legislation is designed to create a safer environment, reflecting a proactive approach to health and safety at educational institutions.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2080 mandates that institutions of higher education in New Jersey must install automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in each athletic facility and student center. The AEDs must be placed in accessible, unlocked locations and clearly marked with appropriate signage. The bill emphasizes the importance of immediate access to AEDs for the safety of students and staff during athletic events and in student centers, where emergencies could arise.

Contention

While the bill mostly garners support due to its focus on safety, some concerns may arise regarding the implementation costs for institutions, particularly for smaller colleges or universities with limited budgets. There is also a concern about the ongoing training and maintenance requirements associated with the AEDs, as institutions must commit to having trained staff on-site. However, these points of contention appear to be secondary to the bill's primary goal of enhancing emergency preparedness.