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Rhode Island

Rhode Island provides extensive Good Samaritan protections to those involved in AED use, and AEDs are required in every Rhode Island city. 

Below is a full list of additional AED requirements in the state. Check out which groups might be impacted and who in Rhode Island might be required to have an AED.

Summary of Requirements

Physician
A physician must approve an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) purchase for acquisition.
CPR/AED Training
A user of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) must be properly trained on the unit in accordance with the standards created by either the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.
EMS Notification
No legislation is currently in place for Rhode Island
Maintenance Program
No legislation is currently in place for Rhode Island
Notification of Use
No legislation is currently in place for Rhode Island

Good Samaritan Protection

Rescuer
Purchaser
Property owner
Physician
Trainer

RI General Laws § 9-1-34

Provides Good Samaritan protection for use of an AED and establishes guidelines for AED programs.

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Laws / Legislation

H 5629 and S 0385aa

Dubbed the “911 Emergency Telephone Number Act,” this 2021 legislation requires 911 operators be trained in how to give CPR directions over the phone.  All 911 telecommunicators in Rhode Island must be trained in telephone CPR by 2022.

RI General Laws § 23-6.5-2

Outlines instructions to ensure the public health and safety for a person that acquires an AED.

RI General Laws § 23-6.2-2

Outlines requirements of the Rhode Island municipal police academy, regarding AED distribution among every city in Rhode Island.

RI General Laws § 16-22-15

The department of elementary and secondary education shall develop and prescribe a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training course for public school students in the state. The course shall be established in accordance with the requirements and criteria obtained from the Red Cross and/or the American Heart Association and the director of the department of health.

RI General Laws § 5-50-12

Outlines AED requirements for health clubs.

Statute 9-1-34

Provides for Good Samaritan protection.

SB 2239

Provides defibrillators for every city and town in the state.

H7044A and S3124

Require that all health care facilities have a functioning automated external defibrillator and a person trained in its use.

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