What to know about a Kentucky lawmaker's push to put AEDs in schools, on sidelines
Rep. Ruth Ann Palumbo, D-Lexington, introduced House Bill 331 on Wednesday, a measure which would require AEDs in every middle and high school, as well as every school-sanctioned practice, game or event.
Only 15 states now require automated external defibrillators on site or access to one at athletic venues for practices or games.
Here's what to know about Palumbo's version:
What does the bill do?
It proposes an amendment to an already existing Kentucky law that mandates schools to have emergency response plans and emergency response drills.
The bill would require the AEDs to be in well-marked locations and ensure three employees and all coaches are trained in its use. It also calls for establishing procedures for using AEDs in emergencies, as well as policies for training, maintenance and communication with local EMS.
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Why the push for AEDs now?
The bill's filing comes a month after Bills' safety Damar Hamlin collapsed during a Monday Night Football game, in which quick response and an AED saved his life.
Star Ifeacho, a basketball player at Paul Laurence Dunbar in Lexington, collapsed during an open gym session on April 26, 2017, but care from an AED was delayed. Ifeacho died, leading his family to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
His mother, Peace Ifeacho, has been outspoken in her call for AEDs in Kentucky schools.
How does an AED save lives?
An AED is a portable device that contains a small computer. It has pads that attach to the device. The pads have electrode sensors that monitor the heart rhythm and detect if a shock is required or not.
Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in the U.S., and a chance of survival decreases by 10% every minute defibrillation is delayed. A person's chance of survival is 85% if an AED is used within three minutes of a collapse.
Related:Family of Kentucky teen who died at soccer practice reaches settlement with school
How does this bill differ from past efforts?
In 2016, a law passed requiring every public school to provide CPR training to high school students as part of health or physical education class. That law requires that as part of the training, students are also made aware of what an AED is and the "ease and safety of use," but does not require a school to have an AED.
Where does the bill stand?
The bill was filed by a Democrat in a House chamber that has an 80-20 Republican majority, so it may have a tough road ahead. It is awaiting a committee assignment.
List:Here's the latest on key bills from the 2023 Kentucky legislature
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky lawmaker wants AEDs in schools and on sports sidelines
