Gus Bilirakis: “I rise in support of H.R. 2498, the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act of 2000. This bipartisan bill was authorized by my…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 2498, the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act of 2000. This bipartisan bill was authorized by my Florida colleague, Congressman Cliff Stearns. It was unanimously approved by the Health and Environment Subcommittee on May 9, and it was reported favorably by the Commerce Committee on May 17. Mr. Speaker, a quarter million Americans die each year due to cardiac arrest. Many of these victims could be saved if portable medical devices called automated external defibrillators or ``AEDs'' were used. AEDs can analyze heart rhythms for abnormalities, and if warranted, deliver a life-saving shock to the heart. Experts estimate that 20,000 to 100,000 lives could be saved annually by greater access to AEDs. H.R. 2498 directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue regulations to provide for the placement of AEDs in federal buildings. The bill also establishes protections from civil liability arising from the emergency use of the devices.”