Texas House Bill HB808

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/27/09

Caption

Relating to the availability of automated external defibrillators at certain athletic clubs.

Impact

HB 808 introduces a civil penalty framework for athletic clubs that fail to comply with the AED availability requirement. Specifically, the bill stipulates that penalties would not exceed $200 for the first violation, escalating to $500 for subsequent violations. This is designed to encourage compliance by athletic clubs while providing an avenue for accountability if they neglect their obligations. The civil penalties are intended to reinforce the importance of having AEDs readily available, thereby enhancing public safety measures within these establishments.

Summary

House Bill 808 aims to enhance the availability of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in athletic clubs across Texas. Under this bill, all athletic clubs must ensure that an AED is available at each of their facilities or locations. Additionally, the bill mandates that at least one trained employee in the proper use of the AED must be present during business hours to ensure a swift response in case of emergencies. This legislation addresses a significant public health concern, aiming to improve cardiac arrest survival rates by making defibrillators more accessible in places where they are more likely to be needed.

Contention

While the bill primarily focuses on improving health outcomes, there may be contention surrounding the enforcement and implications of these civil penalties. Some athletic clubs might view the requirements as burdensome, especially smaller facilities that may struggle to afford compliance. Furthermore, there could be debates regarding the adequacy of the training provided to employees and the potential liabilities for clubs in cases of misuse or failure to use the AED appropriately. These issues could spark discussions regarding the balance between public health mandates and the operational flexibility of athletic facilities.