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MarylandSB 00242026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET

State Emergency Medical Services Board - Public Access Automated External Defibrillator Program - Revisions

Sponsored By: Sponsor information unavailable

Signed by Governor

Public HealthAdministrative AgenciesAwareness and OutreachCertificationsCommittees and CommissionsEmergency Medical Services -see also- Ambul; RescSqdFederal GovernmentFood -see also- Meat, Poultry, & Seafood; Milk; etc.FormsJob Training -see also- Continuing Ed; Vocational RehabLaw Enforcement -see also- SRO; Sheriffs; State PoliceMedical Equipment and DevicesMotor Vehicles -see also- Aband Veh; Ambulances; Buses; etc.Registration -see also- Motor Vehicle RegistrationRestaurantsRetail SalesStandards and Best PracticesWork, Labor, and Employment -see also- JobTrn; Leave; etc.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.

Patrol car AEDs are exempt

A law enforcement agency does not need a Program certificate for an AED kept in a patrol vehicle. This exemption starts October 1, 2026.

Statewide AED and naloxone program

The state creates a Public Access AED Program run by the EMS Board. It also links AEDs with naloxone in public buildings. The Board sets rules, approves training, and can delegate work to the Institute. The law defines “entity” broadly so many organizations can join. These changes take effect October 1, 2026.

AED certificates, enforcement, and protection

Most places that offer an AED must hold a valid Program certificate. Exemptions include EMS operational programs, licensed ambulance services, health care facilities, and dental or medical offices. Certificates list key details and last 3 years. The EMS Board can order violators to stop. Registered entities with a valid certificate, and good‑faith helpers who use an AED without a fee, have civil immunity (not for gross negligence or intentional harm). Aggrieved entities can get a hearing. Rules start October 1, 2026.

Restaurants and groceries must place AEDs

Grocery stores and restaurants must place an AED in a prominent spot that employees and customers can reach. They must register their name with the Program and keep each AED and its supplies working to maker and FDA standards. These requirements take effect October 1, 2026.

Rules to keep AEDs ready

To get or keep a certificate, an entity must have a written plan and call 911 when an AED is used. It must follow Board rules for placement, use, upkeep, and reporting. The AED coordinator must keep devices working per the maker and FDA and promote where they are and how to use them. Entities covered by Health‑General §21‑330.3 (not groceries or restaurants) must ensure the coordinator completes EMS Board training and refreshers. Each AED use must be reported to the Institute on its form. Public buildings must co‑locate naloxone with AEDs. These duties begin October 1, 2026.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsors

There is no primary sponsor on record.

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 168 • No: 8

House vote • 4/2/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 125 • No: 8 • Other: 9

Senate vote • 3/5/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 43 • No: 0 • Other: 4

Actions Timeline

  1. Approved by the Governor - Chapter 92

    4/14/2026

  2. Returned Passed

    4/3/2026Senate

  3. Third Reading Passed (125-8)

    4/2/2026House

  4. Favorable Adopted Second Reading Passed

    4/1/2026House

  5. Favorable Report by Health

    4/1/2026House

  6. Hearing 3/25 at 1:00 p.m.

    3/17/2026House

  7. Referred Health

    3/6/2026House

  8. Third Reading Passed (43-0)

    3/5/2026Senate

  9. Second Reading Passed with Amendments

    3/3/2026Senate

  10. Favorable with Amendments {223826/1 Adopted

    3/3/2026Senate

  11. Favorable with Amendments Report by Education, Energy, and the Environment

    3/2/2026Senate

  12. Hearing 2/18 at 1:00 p.m.

    1/16/2026Senate

  13. First Reading Education, Energy, and the Environment

    1/14/2026Senate

  14. Pre-filed

    9/30/2025Senate

Bill Text

  • Enacted

    4/14/2026

    PDF

  • Third Reading

    3/3/2026

    PDF

  • First Reading

    1/14/2026

    PDF

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