ALBANY, N.Y. — New legislation signed by the governor will be aimed at helping to keep kids safe from cardiac emergencies.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation that will require camps and youth programs to have automated external defibrillator (AED) implementation plans and have at least one person trained on how to use the AEDs at camps, games and practices.
"We all remember the terrifying moment when Damar Hamlin was injured last February, but young athletes at schools and camps could be exposed to similar risks," Governor Hochul said. "By requiring camps and youth sports programs to establish an AED implementation plan, kids will be safer and teams will be prepared. I want every parent in New York to know: we're doing everything we can to keep your kids safe."
The legislation was supported by Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, who suffered a cardiac arrest during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals on January, 2.
"Growing up, in all the years that I played football, I don’t remember thinking about where an AED was located or who was trained to use one. I think that many people have had the same experience. My journey has shown us that no one expects cardiac arrest to happen - and we all need to be prepared. By requiring that at least one person is trained to properly use an AED at every sports event, camp and practice, this new law will help protect tens of thousands of kids in New York State - and is a really important step in saving lives," said Hamlin.
You can read more about the legislation here: https://legiscan.com/NY/text/S07424/2023
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