A public health bill, sponsored by Assemblyman Kevin Byrne, which would increase access to lifesaving automated external defibrillators (pictured above), was passed by the State Assembly on Wednesday, May 17.
A statement from Assemblyman Kevin Byrne
“I am thrilled to report a bill I co-sponsored amending the public health law to increase widespread access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) through physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) was brought before the Assembly yesterday and passed with overwhelming support.”
“The lead sponsor of this bill is Assemblyman Richard Gottfried, Chairman of the Assembly’s Health Committee. I thank him for his leadership on this issue and appreciate his willingness to work together on this in a nonpartisan fashion. I’d also like to personally thank my legislative colleagues who worked to ensure the passage of this worthy measure, which promises lifesaving benefits in the ongoing battle against the number one killer of all Americans, heart disease.”
“My wife Briana is a PA, and I am an EMT. Both of us have seen firsthand the crucial importance of early defibrillation in the race to save someone suffering from cardiac arrest. Each day, countless medical professionals across New York State work tirelessly for our communities. As your Assemblyman, I remain committed to ensuring these men and women continue to have the resources they need available to them.”
The proposed legislation (A07532) has a companion bill in the Senate (S05718) sponsored by Senator Hannon. The senate bill reported out of the Senate’s Health Committee in late April and is awaiting a vote on the floor. If approved, it will then go to the Governor for his signature.