This bill amends several sections of the Code of West Virginia regarding automated external defibrillator (AED) devices. It aims to improve access to early defibrillation by increasing the placement of AEDs in coordination with emergency medical services. Key changes include the requirement for entities that place AEDs on their premises to register these devices with the Office of Emergency Medical Services, as well as the elimination of the requirement to designate a medical director for an early defibrillation program. The bill also clarifies the definitions of terms related to AEDs and establishes that both anticipated and unanticipated operators of AEDs are protected from civil liability when providing emergency care, provided they act in good faith and without gross negligence.

Additionally, the bill revises the registration requirements for AEDs, specifying that entities must notify local emergency services of the AED's existence and location. It also emphasizes the need for training for anticipated operators and mandates compliance with guidelines from the Office of Emergency Medical Services regarding data collection and reporting. Overall, the legislation seeks to enhance the effectiveness of AEDs in saving lives during cardiac emergencies by ensuring their availability and proper use in the community.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-4D-1, 16-4D-2, 16-4D-3, 16-4D-4