Authorizes public access defibrillation providers to possess and carry automated external defibrillators in personal motor vehicles

Title of bill

An act to amend the public health law, in relation to authorizing public access defibrillation providers to possess and carry such automated external defibrillators in personal motor vehicles

Purpose

This bill would allow public access defibrillation to be available to those who are trained, and will make available such equipment to be carried in their personal motor vehicles.

Summary of provisions

Section 1. Subdivision 3 of section 3000-b of the Public health law is amended by adding a new paragraph (g).

Justification

Heart attacks are one of the nation's leading causes of death. Approximately 250,000 people die from sudden cardiac arrest every year. Automated external defibrillators greatly increase a heart attack victim's chance of survival. The American Heart Association estimates that as many as 100,000 deaths could be prevented each year through the widespread deployment of defibrillators.

Seconds are critical when an individual suffers a heart attack. It is essential that the State encourage availability to trained individuals, to prevent causalities. For that reason, automated external defibrillators need to be readily available to anyone who is licensed, and this must include availability in their personal motor vehicles.

Legislative history

S.6797 of 2004, S.518 of 2005/2006, S.586 of 2007/2008

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.