An Act requiring AEDs in clubs and fraternal organizations

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

Requires Chapter 180 clubs to have at least one functional AED and train staff, members, and others in CPR/AED; creates an appropriation-funded fund to cover costs.

House concurred

Summary: Senate Docket No. 2302 — An Act requiring AEDs in clubs and fraternal organizations

Purpose and intent

This proposed Massachusetts bill would require certain nonprofit groups to equip themselves with an automated external defibrillator (AED) and to provide CPR and AED training to designated individuals. The objective is to improve emergency readiness for cardiac events within clubs and fraternal organizations organized under Chapter 180 of the General Laws.

Key provisions

Section 1(a): Any group organized under Chapter 180 must provide and maintain at least one fully functional AED for emergency use.

Section 1(b): Groups subject to subsection (a) must provide mandatory training on CPR and AED usage. Training must be conducted according to standards established by either the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. Training must be provided to:

all organizational staff,
all members of the organization,
and any other individuals determined by the organization’s leadership.

Section 2: A dedicated fund, to be established subject to appropriation, would assist groups required to provide an AED. The fund would cover procurement, maintenance, and training costs necessary under Section 1.

Who is affected

Groups organized under Chapter 180 of the General Laws (i.e., clubs and fraternal organizations) would be required to obtain and maintain an AED and ensure CPR/AED training for staff, members, and other designated individuals.

Financial and funding aspects

The bill creates a fund to aid qualifying organizations with purchasing, maintaining, and training related to AEDs. This fund would be subject to appropriation, meaning state funding would be necessary for disbursement.

Compliance timeline and implementation details

The text does not specify a compliance deadline or effective date.

Training and equipment standards would be aligned with the American Heart Association or American Red Cross guidelines.

Penalties or enforcement mechanisms are not described in the provided text.

Legislative status and process

Introduced: February 27, 2025 (Senate Docket No. 2302, presented by Patrick M. O’Connor).

Legislative actions: Referred to the Committee on Public Health (February 27, 2025); House concurred (same date year provided in the record).

Potential impact

Increased readiness for cardiac emergencies in clubs and fraternal organizations.

Potential ongoing costs for equipment maintenance and training, offset by the new state-funded assistance program (subject to appropriation).

Uniform training standards across affected organizations, promoting consistent CPR/AED response capability.