Automated external defibrillators; creating the Doran Act of 2025; requiring on health spa premises; requirements; voidable contract; effective date.
Impact
The bill establishes clear requirements for health spas concerning the placement and accessibility of AEDs. Along with the defibrillator requirement, spas must ensure that these devices are in easily accessible locations and have appropriate signage indicating their presence. Failure to comply with this mandate could result in contracts for health spa services being voidable at the buyer's option, placing additional pressure on businesses to adhere to the new law. The immunity provision protects spas from liability associated with the use or nonuse of AEDs, except in cases of gross negligence or failure to acquire a defibrillator as mandated.
Summary
House Bill 2379, known as the Doran Act of 2025, mandates that all health spas in Oklahoma must have at least one automated external defibrillator (AED) on the premises. This legislation aims to enhance cardiac safety in health and fitness environments by ensuring immediate access to life-saving devices in the event of an emergency. Health spas are defined broadly to include gyms, fitness centers, and health clubs, making the scope of the bill extensive and impactful across various fitness and health organizations.
Sentiment
General sentiment around HB2379 seems to be supportive, especially in the context of enhancing public health and safety expectations within fitness establishments. Advocates for the bill argue that having accessible AEDs could significantly improve survival rates during cardiac emergencies, which reflects a proactive approach to health care within communities. However, some concerns were raised regarding the financial burden this could impose on small or independent health spas, which might struggle to fund such compliance mandates.
Contention
Notable points of contention focus on the implications of requiring health spas to maintain AEDs and the associated liabilities. While proponents emphasize the importance of life-saving measures and public safety, critics argue that the mandatory compliance requirement could detract from the operational viability of smaller spas. There is a fundamental debate about whether such regulations support or hinder community health initiatives, exposing concerns about how such laws could be practically enforced without overburdening fitness businesses.
Schools; requiring certain school personnel to complete certain training; requiring public schools to develop a cardiac emergency response plan. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; directing establishment of certain grant program related to cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillators. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; directing establishment of certain grant program related to cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillators. Effective date. Emergency.
Mental health; creating the Mental Health Transport Revolving Fund; modifying procedures and requirements for transport of persons requiring treatment. Effective date.
Public health and safety; public pools and spas; regulations; State Department of Health; exceptions; rules; public nuisance; repealer; public pools and spas regulations and guidelines; effective date.