09/06/2025
⚖️ AED Laws in the U.S.: A Patchwork Problem�.
This nationwide legal review found major inconsistencies in laws that govern community AED access, use, and maintenance, creating potential barriers to bystander response.
🧠 Background:�
Early defibrillation is a cornerstone of cardiac arrest survival. But state laws vary widely on what’s required for AED access and protection, leading to confusion and missed opportunities for lifesaving care.
📊 The Study:
• Reviewed laws in all 50 states + DC
• Focused on:�
- Registration and medical oversight requirements�
- Training mandates for AED use�
- Maintenance rules and documentation�
- Legal protections for AED owners and users
📌 Key Findings:
• No two states are identical in AED laws
• Only 15 states require AED maintenance
• Just 18 states require AED training
• Inconsistent Good Samaritan protections—some states protect only trained users
• Several states still impose unnecessary barriers to public AED deployment
✅ Takeaways for EMS & Public Health:
• Advocate for uniform, modernized AED laws aligned with ILCOR and AHA recommendations
• Help educate the public and lawmakers on how legal gaps can cost lives
• Use this study to guide policy updates and strategic AED placement efforts
• Support community CPR/AED initiatives by reducing red tape
📚 Full Study:https://www.handtevy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/A-Heterogeneous-Legal-Landscape-Governs-Community-AED-Use-Crowdsourced-United-States-AED-Legal-Review-and-Gap-Analysis.pdf
