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The Administration supports House passage of H.R. 2498, which is
designed to encourage the use of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) in
Federal buildings. In his May 20th radio address, the President announced new
measures that will help save the lives of Americans suffering sudden cardiac
arrest in Federal buildings and airplanes. It is estimated that more than
20,000 lives could be saved annually by providing greater access to AEDs. In
order to increase the likelihood of survival to persons suffering sudden
cardiac arrest, the President directed the Department of Health and Human
Services and the General Services Administration to develop guidelines to place
AEDs in Federal buildings. In addition, the President announced his support for
the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act, which would provide Good Samaritan protections
for certain persons using an AED in emergency situations or acquiring the
device for such purpose, but would maintain existing standards for medical
experts and facilities.
The Administration looks forward to working with Congress to
enact this important piece of legislation. |