Lawmakers table bill after medical group raises safety and approval concerns about anti‑choking devices

Representative Townsend presented a constituent-driven bill prompted by the death of a 16-month-old (identified in testimony as Jamal) who choked in a daycare. The measure would require child-care centers and family child-care homes to have a portable airway‑clearance device (PACD) available, increase the time by which staff must be CPR certified from 90 to 45 days after hire, and require training options (in-person, online, or literature-based). Townsend described the PACD as a "third tool in the toolbox" to be used only after CPR and other recommended techniques.

Supporters argued the device is inexpensive (manufacturers and witnesses cited costs under $100) and could provide an additional option in emergencies. Representative Townsend emphasized it would not replace CPR and that DECAL recommended 45 days as a reasonable training window.

Rick Ward, executive director of the Georgia chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, urged caution and told the committee the devices are not FDA approved and that the FDA issued a statement in the spring warning of risks, including potential delay of established techniques such as CPR. Ward said national organizations including the American Heart Association and American Red Cross do not endorse PACDs and urged the committee to focus on proven practices such as pediatric CPR and prevention measures.

After discussion and with author and stakeholders present, the committee voted to table the bill to allow further review and coordination among the author, DECAL and medical groups.