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HB 32

Local Law Enforcement Vehicles - Requirements - Automated External Defibrillators

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gary Simmons

Maryland bill mandates all local police vehicles carry Automated External Defibrillators to improve cardiac arrest survival rates during emergency response.

Hearing 2/24 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 32

Legislative bill overview

HB 32 would require all local law enforcement vehicles in Maryland to be equipped with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). The bill mandates that police departments stock and maintain these life-saving devices in their patrol vehicles as part of standard equipment.

Why is this important

AEDs can dramatically improve survival rates for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, particularly in the critical minutes before paramedics arrive. Since police are often first responders to emergencies, equipping their vehicles could expand access to potentially life-saving equipment across communities and reduce response time gaps in rural or underserved areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Purchasing, maintaining, and regularly servicing AEDs for all local law enforcement vehicles statewide carries significant expense that municipalities must absorb
  • Training and liability: Officers would need proper AED training, and questions remain about liability if devices are misused or fail to function properly during emergencies
  • Feasibility for smaller departments: Rural or resource-limited police departments may struggle to comply with procurement and maintenance requirements without state funding assistance

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

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