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Register of deeds backs bill requiring AEDs in specified public places, citing low unit cost
Summary
Norfolk County Register of Deeds Bill O'Donnell testified in favor of bills (S1473/H2349) to require automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) in designated public buildings, saying devices and certification are affordable and that AEDs save lives.
The committee heard testimony supporting bills to require automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) in certain public locations. Bill O'Donnell, Norfolk County Register of Deeds, described the registry's experience installing AEDs in its building and urged the committee to move the legislation forward.
O'Donnell said the present unit cost for a defibrillator is about $2,000, maintenance costs approximately $295 per unit, and that training and certification of staff cost roughly $750 to certify about 10 employees every two years. "You can't put a price on saving a life," he said, and he cited Red Cross findings that early access to AEDs improves survival from cardiac arrest.
He told the committee the bills had previously advanced out of this committee and reached House scheduling last session. O'Donnell said the bills were refiled this session with bipartisan sponsorship and asked for continued consideration.
Why it matters: expanding AED access in public buildings is a public‑health measure that proponents argue is cost‑effective relative to potential lives saved.
The committee took no vote during the hearing.
