Rhode Island House Bill H7044

Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/24
• Refer: 1/5/24

Caption

Requires all health care facilities to provide functional automated external defibrillators (AEDs

Impact

If enacted, H7044 would amend Chapter 23-6.5 of the General Laws, broadening the scope of AED requirements within public spaces. This would particularly affect public locations that hold 300 or more individuals, such as malls, schools, and large event venues, mandating not just the presence of AEDs but also access to trained personnel. The shift could have significant implications for both healthcare providers and the general public, particularly in improving emergency response times during cardiac crises and protecting lives.

Summary

House Bill H7044, introduced in January 2024, mandates that all healthcare facilities in Rhode Island are required to provide functional automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and ensure that at least one person on-site is trained to operate these devices. The legislative findings highlight the critical nature of sudden cardiac arrest and stress that timely defibrillation can significantly improve survival rates. The bill aims to enhance public safety by extending AED accessibility in various environments where large gatherings occur, thus better equipping healthcare facilities to respond to emergencies effectively.

Contention

During discussions surrounding H7044, various points of contention emerged regarding the costs and logistics for healthcare facilities to comply with the new requirements. Some stakeholders voiced concerns about the financial burden placed on smaller healthcare providers and whether the training and maintenance of AEDs could be feasibly integrated into existing operational frameworks. Supporters argue that the benefits of increased survival rates in the event of cardiac arrest outweigh the costs, stressing the importance of proactive health measures in public settings.