Stripp: House Passes “Good Samaritan” Defibrillator Bill

HARTFORD—The House of Representatives with the support of Rep. John Stripp, who represents Easton, Redding and Weston, passed “Good Samaritan” legislation this week governing Automatic External Defibrillators in places such as high schools and health clubs.

Under the bill backed by Stripp, a person or entity that maintains such defibrillators cannot be held liable for ordinary negligence when it’s used in emergency. The bill moves to the governor for approval.

“These devices could save lives, and people shouldn’t have to second-guess having them or using them in emergencies because they fear legal wrangling down the road,” Stripp said.

Establishing requirements and immunity for the use of AEDs in health clubs and athletic facilities of public high schools and institutions of higher education was the intent of the bill.

Stripp is pleased the bill received such strong support from his legislative colleagues in the House and Senate.

“We need to promote an environment where people can follow their first instincts and offer help to those in need rather than shackle those good intentions due to a fear of litigation,” added Rep. Stripp.