SPRINGFIELD – To increase the chances of survival during cardiac arrest, State Senator Doris Turner is leading a measure that would require AEDs in nursing homes.

"Facilities entrusted with caring for individuals need to be able to demonstrate to loved ones that the health and well-being of the resident is foremost in everybody's mind," said Turner (D-Springfield). “This would give nursing home residents and their families peace of mind that if something were to happen, there are the necessary tools on site to revive them.”

House Bill 1287 would require nursing homes to have an automatic external defibrillator by Jan. 1, 2030. Additionally, Turner’s measure requires all facility staff certified to use an AED to have completed courses in CPR and AED usage.

Under current law, AEDs are required in public schools, fitness centers, horse racing facilities, police departments and dental offices. According to the American Heart Association, of the people with cardiac arrest who receive a shock from an AED within the first minute, nine out of 10 survive.

“The data shows us that AEDs can save lives,” said Turner. “Let’s prioritize the lives of our seniors and nursing home residents by requiring lifesaving devices in facilities.”

House Bill 1287 passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee and heads to the full Senate for further consideration.