ASSEMBLY HIGHER EDUCATION COMMITTEE

 

STATEMENT TO

 

ASSEMBLY, No. 1368

 

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

 

DATED:  JANUARY 17, 2019

 

      The Assembly Higher Education Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 1368.

     This bill requires an institution of higher education to place an automated external defibrillator in an unlocked location in each athletic facility and student center with an appropriate identifying sign.  The defibrillator will be accessible during the normal operating hours of the athletic facility or student center and within reasonable proximity of the institution’s athletic fields.

     Under the bill, the institution is required to ensure that:

     (1)   at least two staff members who are trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of the defibrillator are in the athletic facility or student center during the normal operating hours; and

     (2)   each defibrillator is tested and maintained according to the manufacturer’s operational guidelines, and notification is provided to the appropriate first aid, ambulance, or rescue squad, or other appropriate emergency medical services provider regarding the defibrillator, the type acquired, and its location.

      An institution of higher education and its staff are granted immunity from civil liability in the acquisition and use of a defibrillator.

      This bill was pre-filed for introduction in the 2018-2019 session pending technical review.  As reported, the bill includes the changes required by technical review, which has been performed.