Senator Nozzolio Helps Enact Lifesaving Emt Legislation

New York State Senator Mike Nozzolio today supported and fought to enact legislation that was adopted by the Senate (S.2387) that will potentially save hundreds of lives by allowing emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to carry an automated external defibrillator (AED) in their personal vehicles.

 “Our highly-trained EMTs provide critical lifesaving services to our citizens and communities. We cannot allow them to be burdened by unnecessary government regulations when every second at the scene of an emergency could mean the difference between life and death,” said Senator Nozzolio. “I was proud to support this legislation  to give our first responders the tools they need to do their jobs effectively and enhance public safety.” 

The legislation will permit EMTs to possess and use the defibrillators while they are off-duty. Currently, EMTs are only allowed to carry the devices off-duty if they are specifically licensed as a public access defibrillator provider, even though all EMTs are trained to use AEDs.

 “Throughout the Finger Lakes region, EMTs are often first on the scene of an emergency, even when they are off-duty,” said Senator Nozzolio. “This legislation will eliminate bureaucratic red tape that currently prevents these trained professionals from being prepared for an emergency at all times. Having more EMTs equipped with defibrillators in more places can only mean more lives saved in emergency situations.”

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