February 4, 2025

Rep. Scott Proposes AEDs in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Facilities

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View Rep. Scott’s Testimony: https://youtu.be/68KbFUXsdZA

Hartford, CT. – State Representative Tony Scott (R-112) has introduced a bill to require nursing homes and assisted living facilities to be equipped with an automated external defibrillator (AED). The bill was referred to the Public Health Committee, which voted to draft his proposal as a committee bill.

Rep. Scott testified on Monday in support of SB 1190, An Act Requiring Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities to be Equipped with an Automated External Defibrillator.

“A constituent from Monroe voiced his concern after discovering that the assisted living facility where his grandmother was staying in Connecticut did not have an AED. While the state mandates that AEDs be available at golf courses, collegiate athletic areas, schools, and fitness centers, they are not required in nursing homes or assisted living facilities,” said Rep. Scott.

This bill would require Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities to have an AED on site while someone on duty be trained to use it, at all times. Neighboring states, including New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, already have such a requirement. A similar bill is currently working its way through the New York General Assembly.

“Many residents in assisted living and nursing homes are at a higher risk of sudden cardiac arrest, as the risk increases with age. These individuals are among the most vulnerable, and having an AED nearby could make the difference between life and death,” said Rep. Scott.

Rep. Scott said during his testimony that there are 356,000 deaths per year in the United States from sudden cardiac arrest outside the hospital, and 90% of incidents end up in death due to the lack of an AED close by. He added that survival can be as high as 90% if treatment starts within the first minutes after the sudden cardiac arrest.

“Honestly, I’m not a fan of mandates, and I understand this one will cost non-compliant facilities around $1,000 to purchase. But when it comes to the potential of saving a life, that cost is insignificant,” concluded Rep. Scott.

Rep. Scott has submitted several other bills, and the entire list can be viewed at RepScott.com and clicking on the ‘Legislation’ tab.

The 2025 Connecticut Legislative Session adjourns at midnight on June 4th.

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