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HB 8366

AN ACT RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS REQUIRED AT PUBLIC PLACES AND HEALTHCARE FACILITIES

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Doc Corvese and 1 co-sponsor

Rhode Island requires AEDs at public places and healthcare facilities to improve cardiac arrest survival, imposing equipment costs and maintenance obligations on affected organizations.

04/14/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · HB 8366

Legislative bill overview

HB 8366 mandates that automated external defibrillators (AEDs) be installed and maintained at public places and healthcare facilities throughout Rhode Island. The bill establishes requirements for placement, maintenance, training, and accessibility of these life-saving devices to improve survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest.

Why is this important

Sudden cardiac arrest kills approximately 350,000 Americans annually, with survival rates dramatically improving when AEDs are deployed within the first few minutes. This legislation aims to increase accessibility to AEDs in high-traffic areas, potentially saving lives during critical medical emergencies before emergency services arrive.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Facilities must purchase, install, and maintain AEDs plus provide staff training, creating budget pressures for smaller public venues and healthcare organizations
  • Liability and oversight: Unclear standards for who maintains devices, conducts inspections, and potential liability if AEDs malfunction or aren't used properly during emergencies
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill may need clarification on which specific "public places" are covered (schools, gyms, shopping centers, offices?) and enforcement mechanisms for compliance

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

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