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HB 5294

AN ACT REQUIRING ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES TO HAVE AN AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR AVAILABLE IN A PUBLIC AREA.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Christie Carpino

Connecticut would require assisted living facilities to keep automated external defibrillators accessible in public areas to improve cardiac emergency response.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Public Health
#assistedlivingservices #automaticexternaldefibrillators
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Bill Summary · HB 5294

Legislative bill overview

HB 5294 mandates that all assisted living facilities in Connecticut must maintain at least one automated external defibrillator (AED) in an accessible public area. The bill appears to establish a straightforward safety requirement without specifying training requirements, maintenance standards, or enforcement mechanisms.

Why is this important

Assisted living facilities serve elderly and medically vulnerable populations at elevated risk for cardiac events. AED availability has been shown to significantly improve survival rates during sudden cardiac arrest, making this a potentially life-saving intervention. However, effectiveness depends heavily on proper placement, staff training, and regular maintenance—factors not addressed in the bill's title.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Facilities must purchase equipment ($1,200-$2,500 per unit) and potentially cover ongoing maintenance and battery/pad replacement expenses, which may burden smaller operators
  • Training and liability gaps: The bill doesn't require staff training in AED use, creating potential liability issues and reducing the equipment's practical effectiveness
  • Enforcement ambiguity: No clear penalties, inspection protocols, or responsible agency are specified, making compliance monitoring unclear
  • Regulatory overlap: Connecticut may already have AED requirements under other health codes or building standards, creating potential redundancy or conflict

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

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