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Bill

S 1606

An Act requiring AEDs in clubs and fraternal organizations

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Patrick O'Connor

Massachusetts bill requiring clubs and fraternal organizations to install AEDs and maintain trained personnel to increase cardiac arrest survival rates at member gatherings.

Reporting date extended to Friday July 31, 2026
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Bill Summary · S 1606

Legislative bill overview

S 1606 requires clubs and fraternal organizations in Massachusetts to maintain automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on their premises. The bill mandates that these organizations have trained personnel available to operate the devices and establish protocols for emergency response.

Why is this important

Sudden cardiac arrest can occur anywhere, and quick access to an AED significantly increases survival rates—studies show survival rates improve 50-70% when AEDs are deployed within the first few minutes. Clubs and fraternal organizations host regular gatherings of diverse age groups in indoor spaces where cardiac events may occur but emergency medical services response time could be critical.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and burden on small organizations: Smaller clubs and fraternal groups may face financial hardship purchasing AEDs (typically $1,000-$2,500 per unit) and ongoing maintenance costs, potentially limiting membership or operations
  • Training and liability questions: Unclear whether the bill specifies who bears liability if an AED is used improperly, and whether organizations must maintain current CPR/AED certification among staff
  • Exemption scope and enforcement: Ambiguity around which organizations qualify as "clubs" versus other gatherings, and how the state will monitor compliance among numerous private organizations

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

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