Bill > HR5897

This bill aims to improve access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in transportation facilities by expanding federal funding and establishing guidelines for their deployment. Recognizing that sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death with survival rates decreasing by 7-10% per minute without intervention, the bill amends the Surface Transportation Block Grant Program to allow funding for purchasing and deploying AEDs in transportation facilities. The Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with health experts, will develop recommendations for AED placement and create guidelines for emergency action plans at interstate transportation facilities, which include bus and ferry terminals, highway rest areas, and certain rail transportation vehicles. The bill defines specific types of transportation facilities and transportation systems that would be covered, and provides technical assistance to help facility owners implement these recommendations. The legislation also allows the Transportation Secretary to impose additional conditions on financial assistance programs to encourage AED adoption. The provisions of the bill will take effect 180 days after its enactment, giving transportation facilities time to prepare and implement the new requirements.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5897/all-info