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Reps. Scott Franklin (FL-18) and Gerald Connolly (VA-11) reintroduced their bipartisan Cardiac Arrest Survival Act, which would encourage the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) during Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) events by establishing nationwide protections for individuals who deploy AEDs in out-of-hospital emergencies.

“The Cardiac Arrest Survival Act is focused on saving lives,” said Rep. Scott Franklin. “Each year, thousands of Americans suffer sudden cardiac arrest in public spaces, and all too often, lifesaving defibrillation is limited or delayed due to liability concerns. This bill removes those barriers, ensuring AEDs are more accessible and those who help in emergencies are protected. It’s a straightforward solution to make our communities safer and more prepared in critical moments when every second counts.”

“Access to AEDs is critical to saving lives during a cardiac emergency,” said Rep. Gerald Connolly. “As Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors I made it a priority that County buildings and schools deploy this lifesaving technology, and that staff have the knowledge and training to use these tools effectively. This legislation will ensure we don’t allow fear of liability or a patchwork of differing protections across the states to prevent an individual or business from taking all necessary measures to save a life.” 

Specifically, the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act amends the Public Health Service Act to clarify liability protections regarding AED use. The bill would outline a national standard or uniform base of civil liability protections for those who use, own or manage AEDs during out-of- hospital cardiac emergencies. This ensures Good Samaritans can use AEDs without fear of legal repercussions. 

According to the American Heart Association, over 356,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals every year and nearly 90% of these tragic circumstances are fatal. The survival rate drops by seven to ten percent for every minute that passes without defibrillation. If an AED is used within the first few minutes of SCA, survival rates can be as high as 70%. 

All 50 states and the District of Columbia have varying “Good Samaritan” laws. Unfortunately, the current patchwork of state laws has resulted in confusion, which discourages individuals and businesses from owning or using AEDs due to liability concerns. A 2020 national survey found only 5.3% of respondents felt confident using an AED, with legal consequences cited as a leading concern.

Original cosponsors of the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act include: Reps. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12); Darren Soto (FL-09); Kat Cammack (FL-03); Ken Calvert (CA-41); Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02); Ben Cline (VA-06); and Donald Beyer (VA-08).

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