# Understanding the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act of 2023

This bill creates a nationwide legal shield for people who use automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in emergencies. An AED is that portable device you sometimes see in public places that can shock someone's heart back into rhythm during cardiac arrest. Right now, different states have different rules about whether someone can be sued if they use an AED and something goes wrong. This bill makes the rules the same everywhere, giving strong legal protection to people who try to save a life with an AED.

The bill protects three groups of people from lawsuits. First, it protects anyone who uses an AED on someone having a heart emergency—they can't be sued for harm that results from their attempt to help, even if they've never been trained. Second, it protects building owners, managers, and tenants if an AED on their property is used in an emergency. Third, it protects the people or businesses who own or bought the AED, as long as they kept it properly maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions. The law makes clear that none of these protections depend on whether the person had training, whether warning signs were posted, or whether a doctor was supervising.

However, the protections don't apply in extreme situations. Someone can still be sued if they acted with gross negligence, recklessness, or criminal intent. Also, doctors and hospitals using AEDs as part of their regular medical practice don't get this special protection—they're held to their normal professional standards. The bill essentially removes a major barrier that has kept many businesses and organizations from placing AEDs in their buildings. By guaranteeing legal protection for good-faith rescue attempts, it aims to get more life-saving devices into public spaces where they can help during emergencies.

Cardiac Arrest Survival Act of 2023

Franklin, Scott

Cardiac Arrest Survival Act of 2023 This bill expands immunity from civil liability related to emergency use of automated external defibrillator devices (AEDs). In particular, the bill specifies that immunity applies regardless of whether the person who used the AED complied with signage, received training, or was assisted or supervised by another person, such as a licensed physician. Additionally, the bill limits the liability of the person who owns or acquires an AED for harm resulting from its use unless that person fails to appropriately maintain the AED.