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H 2391

An Act requiring automated external defibrillators at sporting events

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts H.2391 would require public sports facilities to have at least one AED on site and trained responders during events, plus CPR/AED training and clear AED placards.

New draft substituted, see H4993
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Bill Summary · H 2391

Summary: H.2391 – An Act requiring automated external defibrillators at sporting events

Purpose and intent

H.2391 would require public facilities that host athletic or sporting events to have automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on site and ensure trained personnel are available during activities. The aim is to improve immediate response to cardiac emergencies at sporting events by guaranteeing access to AEDs and trained responders.

Key provisions

  • Definition addition

    • Expands the definition of “Facility” to include public stadiums, sports centers, gymnasiums, or other facilities hosting athletic or sporting events.

  • AED availability and personnel on site

    • Each facility must have at least one AED on the premises.
    • During any sporting activity at the facility, at least one employee or authorized volunteer must be present as an AED provider.

  • Training and qualifications

    • At least one person in attendance during a sporting activity must be trained in CPR and in the use of an AED, in accordance with standards established by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.
    • If no trained employee or volunteer is available, the facility operator must make best efforts to identify readily available volunteers present at the facility who are trained in CPR and AED use.
    • The operator may request volunteers via a public announcement, which must include: the location of AEDs, the identity of the trained employee/volunteer, and how others can indicate willingness to volunteer (e.g., standing, raising a hand, or electronic contact).

  • Public awareness and accessibility

    • A placard with a map showing the location of AEDs must be installed at every facility entryway.

Who is affected

  • Public facilities that host sporting events (as defined by the bill) in Massachusetts.
  • Facility operators, employees, and volunteers.
  • Athletes, spectators, and the general public using or attending events at these facilities, who would benefit from improved access to AEDs and trained responders.

Implementation and timeline

  • The bill is part of the 194th General Court (2025-2026) of Massachusetts.
  • Legislative actions recorded:
    • Referred to Public Health on February 27, 2025.
    • Hearing scheduled for April 2, 2025 (Gardner Auditorium).
    • Senate concurred on February 27, 2025.
    • Reported favorably by committee and referred to the Committee on Health Care Financing on July 3, 2025.
  • If enacted, the provisions would take effect as specified by the bill’s final language and any implementing regulations that accompany it.

Notes

  • The bill’s requirements rely on AED definitions and provider qualifications consistent with established standards from the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.
  • No specific financial costs or funding mechanisms are detailed in the provided text; implementation costs would depend on facility size and current readiness.

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

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