Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association Applauds House Passage of Bill to Help Fund AEDs in Elementary & Secondary Education Facilities

The Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association (SCAA) applauds the passage by the House of Representatives of H.R. 1380 (the "Josh Miller HEARTS Act") – legislation that establishes a federal grant program to help fund the placement of automated electronic defibrillators (AEDs) at elementary and secondary schools across the country and also requires school personnel be trained in the operation of AEDs.

"The only way to survive sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is by receiving immediate emergency medical assistance through the use of CPR and an electrical shock administered by an AED. Because SCA can strike people of all ages, including children and teens, this bill not only makes educational facilities safer for students, but also for teachers, staff, administrators, parents, and visitors to school campuses," said Chris Chiames, executive director of the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association. "SCAA commends Representative Betty Sutton (OH-13) for introducing this life-saving legislation and urges the Senate to consider and quickly pass H.R. 1380 as well."

Sudden cardiac arrest afflicts nearly 300,000 Americans per year – more than lung cancer, breast cancer, and HIV/AIDS combined. It can occur anywhere and at anytime; therefore placing AEDs in public areas can strengthen the chain of survival.

The Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association (SCAA) is an organization singularly focused on sudden cardiac arrest. SCAA identifies and unites survivors, those at risk of sudden cardiac arrest, as well as others who are interested in being advocates on SCAA issues in their communities and beyond. Its membership is dedicated to promoting solutions to prevent sudden cardiac death, including increased awareness, immediate bystander action, public access to defibrillation (PAD), and access to therapies. To learn more, visit www.suddencardiacarrest.org.