Polk Times

Reps. Scott Franklin and Gerald Connolly have reintroduced the bipartisan Cardiac Arrest Survival Act, aimed at encouraging the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) during sudden cardiac arrest events by establishing nationwide protections for individuals who deploy AEDs in out-of-hospital emergencies.

"The Cardiac Arrest Survival Act is focused on saving lives," said Rep. Scott Franklin. "Each year, thousands of Americans suffer sudden cardiac arrest in public spaces, and all too often, lifesaving defibrillation is limited or delayed due to liability concerns. This bill removes those barriers, ensuring AEDs are more accessible and those who help in emergencies are protected. It’s a straightforward solution to make our communities safer and more prepared in critical moments when every second counts."

Rep. Gerald Connolly emphasized the importance of access to AEDs: "Access to AEDs is critical to saving lives during a cardiac emergency," he said. "As Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors I made it a priority that County buildings and schools deploy this lifesaving technology, and that staff have the knowledge and training to use these tools effectively. This legislation will ensure we don’t allow fear of liability or a patchwork of differing protections across the states to prevent an individual or business from taking all necessary measures to save a life."

The Cardiac Arrest Survival Act seeks to amend the Public Health Service Act by clarifying liability protections related to AED use. The bill proposes a national standard for civil liability protections for those who use, own, or manage AEDs during out-of-hospital cardiac emergencies, allowing Good Samaritans to act without fear of legal repercussions.

According to the American Heart Association, over 356,000 cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals annually, with nearly 90% resulting in fatalities. The survival rate decreases by seven to ten percent each minute without defibrillation; however, if an AED is used within the first few minutes of sudden cardiac arrest, survival rates can reach up to 70%.

While all 50 states and Washington D.C. have varying "Good Samaritan" laws regarding AED use, these differences have led to confusion and discouraged individuals and businesses from owning or using AEDs due to liability concerns. A 2020 national survey found only 5.3% felt confident using an AED because legal consequences were a major concern.

The original cosponsors of the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act include Reps. Gus Bilirakis; Darren Soto; Kat Cammack; Ken Calvert; Jefferson Van Drew; Ben Cline; and Donald Beyer.