Senator Jeff Howe (R-Rockville) yesterday presented a bill that would fund the purchase and installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on public lands. These AEDs would be placed in state parks, rest stops, and schools. The bill’s language would allow for AED Smart Monitored Cabinets to be installed across the state. They would be heated in the winter and cooled in the summer, to prevent any damage from the elements. Units would also be equipped with a tracking device to ensure the systems are not stolen. Chances of survival decrease about 10% for every minute that passes without treatment during sudden cardiac arrest. In the case of cardiac arrest emergencies occurring in public outdoor spaces, installation of these AED cabinets would increase accessibility to life-saving tools.

“Sudden Cardiac Arrests kill around 1,000 people per day, and these attacks can happen at any time. Unfortunately, many outdoor parks and spaces aren’t equipped with AEDs for this deadly emergency. This bill will allow Advocates for Health to install AEDs in external cabinets throughout various outdoor recreation areas across the state. It’s estimated that 95% percent of victims suffering from a Sudden Cardiac Arrest die before reaching the hospital. No one plans to have a heart attack, least of all when hiking or recreating in one of our state parks. By installing these units, we can save lives,” said Howe.

This bill was heard in the Senate Environment Finance committee and was laid over for possible inclusion in the committee’s final omnibus bill.