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Family of Crofton patron backs bill to put AEDs, staff training in Maryland public libraries
Summary
The Ways and Means Committee heard personal testimony from the family of a Crofton postal worker who died after suffering cardiac arrest at a library; Delegate Adrian Beegofo (presenter) asked for a favorable report on HB 5 93, which would require AEDs and training in public libraries.
Delegate Adrian Buwaffoe (sponsor) told the committee he introduced House Bill 5 93 — the Romano A. Russell Act — to require automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in all public libraries and training for library staff after a constituent, Romano A. Russell, suffered cardiac arrest and died while stopping at the Crofton Library on his route.
Russell’s wife testified to the committee about the day her husband collapsed and the absence of an AED at that facility. “If an AED was available, Ray could be here today,” she told the panel, asking members to approve the bill so other families would not endure comparable loss.
Supporters said public libraries are high‑traffic community hubs that serve children, seniors and people with disabilities and that the marginal cost of equipping branches with AEDs and staff training is small relative to the potential lifesaving benefit. The sponsor said the bill would mandate AED placement and training and noted the Crofton case as the impetus for a statewide requirement.
Committee members did not vote at the hearing; the sponsor requested a favorable report to move the bill forward.
