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HD 3024

An Act requiring automatic external defibrillators in Norfolk County public buildings

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marcus Vaughn

Norfolk County public buildings must install and maintain automatic external defibrillators to improve cardiac emergency response and survival rates.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 3024

Legislative bill overview

HD 3024 mandates that all public buildings in Norfolk County, Massachusetts install and maintain automatic external defibrillators (AEDs). The bill likely establishes requirements for device placement, maintenance schedules, staff training, and public access protocols to ensure readiness for cardiac emergencies.

Why is this important

Sudden cardiac arrest can be fatal within minutes, and AEDs significantly improve survival rates when deployed quickly. Public buildings—including schools, municipal offices, libraries, and recreation centers—serve large populations where cardiac events may occur, making AED availability a potentially life-saving public health measure.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden: Installation, maintenance, battery replacement, and annual certification create ongoing expenses for municipalities, potentially straining already-tight budgets
  • Geographic scope: Limiting the requirement to Norfolk County creates inconsistent coverage across Massachusetts and raises questions about whether neighboring counties should adopt similar standards
  • Training and liability: The bill must clarify who is responsible for staff training, maintenance protocols, and potential liability if an AED malfunctions or is improperly used

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

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