House Committee Approves Legislation for AEDs in Schools

COLUMBUS – The House Health Provider Services Committee passed legislation joint sponsored by State Representatives Adam Bird (R-New Richmond) and Richard Brown (D-Canal Winchester) that would require automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in schools.

According to the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the chances of survival from Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) decrease by 7-10% for each minute without immediate CPR or defibrillation, and after 10 minutes, resuscitation rarely succeeds. Having an AED on sight allows a trained staff member to begin resuscitation and increases the chance of survival while waiting for EMS.

“Each passing second is crucial when it comes to saving a life,” Bird said. “We are taking life-saving measures to help students and staff before first responders arrive by requiring schools to have AEDs in the building in case of an emergency.”

House Bill 47 now heads to the House floor for further consideration.