Public Access to Defibrillation in Transportation Facilities Act of 2025
Summary
The Public Access to Defibrillation in Transportation Facilities Act of 2025 aims to improve access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in interstate transportation facilities. It amends Title 23 of the United States Code to allow surface transportation block grant funds to be used for AED deployment and emergency action plans. The Act also directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue recommendations and guidelines for AED deployment and emergency action plans in these facilities.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase the availability of AEDs in transportation hubs, potentially saving lives during sudden cardiac arrests. It also mandates the development of emergency action plans, which could improve the response to various medical emergencies in these locations.
Potential Benefits
- Increased availability of AEDs in high-traffic areas.
- Improved emergency response protocols in transportation facilities.
- Potential for reduced mortality rates from sudden cardiac arrest.
- Technical assistance from federal agencies for implementation.
- Better preparedness for medical emergencies in general.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with purchasing, deploying, and maintaining AEDs.
- Administrative burden on transportation facilities to develop and implement emergency action plans.
- Possible need for training personnel to use AEDs effectively.
- Could create unfunded mandates for some transportation facilities if grant funding is insufficient.
- Potential liability concerns for those using AEDs, although Good Samaritan laws typically offer protection.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Specifically, the Act promotes public health and safety by improving access to life-saving medical devices in public spaces. The Act does not infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).