Action needed on bill for AEDs in health clubs

For the past 18 months, a bill that could save lives by requiring all New Jersey health and fitness centers to have an automated external defibrillator (AED) on-site with properly trained staff has been stalled by the New Jersey Senate Health Committee.

Senators in our state need to follow the lead of their counterparts in the Assembly and support this legislation (S-1106). It is long overdue.

While the number of people that use fitness facilities has increased, so has a population of non-exercisers who have not received physician approval before starting an exercise program. It is important that all New Jersey fitness clubs are prepared for possible worst case scenarios.

Under the guidance of CentraState Medical Center of Freehold Township, WOW! Work Out World, a New Jersey-based chain of upscale health clubs, has invested time, money and effort to outfit our seven locations with defibrillators. We have also gone the extra mile and have provided staff training. As a result of our efforts, Work Out World received the American Heart Association’s American Heart Saver Award.

The state Legislature reconvenes later this month. We urge the Senate Health Committee to pass this bill. Public safety depends on it.

Stephen P. Roma

President

WOW! Work Out World

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