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SD 608

An Act providing hands only CPR training and the use of defibrillators

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Rush

Massachusetts bill mandates hands-only CPR training and AED access to improve cardiac emergency response capacity across public settings.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 608

Legislative bill overview

SD 608 establishes requirements for hands-only CPR training and automated external defibrillator (AED) access in Massachusetts, likely focusing on public facilities, schools, or workplaces. The bill aims to increase emergency response capacity by ensuring more people know CPR and have access to lifesaving defibrillation equipment during cardiac emergencies.

Why is this important

Sudden cardiac arrest is time-sensitive—survival rates drop significantly with each minute of delay before CPR and defibrillation. Expanding hands-only CPR training (which requires no mouth-to-mouth contact) lowers barriers to public participation and can dramatically improve outcomes. Greater AED availability means more locations can respond to cardiac emergencies before emergency services arrive.

Potential points of contention

  • Training mandate scope and costs: Depending on implementation, mandatory CPR training could impose compliance burdens and expenses on schools, businesses, or municipalities without clear funding mechanisms
  • AED placement and maintenance responsibility: Questions remain about who funds equipment purchases, installation, maintenance, and staff training, particularly in resource-constrained facilities
  • Liability concerns: Unclear whether the bill includes Good Samaritan protections for untrained bystanders using AEDs or whether facilities face liability for equipment malfunction or improper use

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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