Each state in the U.S. has its own laws governing AEDs, with unique requirements and programs. The AED Law Center provides detailed information on state laws, program requirements, Good Samaritan protections, and AED placement mandates.
Some new laws require schools to develop and implement a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP). By 2028, this will be required in Montana, Florida, North Dakota, Texas, and Vermont. In Arizona, another law mandates AEDs at school-run athletic events. Some states, including Arizona, Florida, and North Dakota, are beginning to require schools to place AEDs on school grounds if they haven’t already.
Connecticut will require AEDs in senior living environments, such as nursing homes, by 2026, while Maryland will require AEDs in public libraries by the same year. In Rhode Island, AEDs will be required on both public and private golf courses.
In California, by 2028, all youth sport organizations must have AEDs at games and practices and perform regular maintenance. By 2027, coaches for these organizations will also need CPR/AED certification and an emergency response plan. For contractors in California, effective immediately, worksites with two or more workers who perform electrical transmission or distribution work over 601 volts must have an AED, have a written AED and emergency response plan, and report any AED use to local EMS after a cardiac emergency.
In New York, nonpublic schools will be required to install AEDs, post AED signage, and report AED usage to local EMS.
Thanks to the AED Law Center for providing the information that made this summary possible.
Please visit The AED Law Center's website for more information.
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Summary by Joanna Kunz, Intern, Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation