GET THAT AED! JANET’S LAW TAKES EFFECT ON SEPTEMBER 1! (NJ)

As previously discussed (see: Previous Janet’s Law Blog Post), Janet’s Law goes into effect on September 1, 2014 in New Jersey.  The law requires New Jersey public and non-public schools to have an automated external defibrillator (AED), to train school officials and coaches on the use of AEDs, and to establish emergency action plans. The law also requires that the schools maintain the AEDs in accordance with the previously passed law on AED acquisition and maintenance.  The law is very clear on its application only to schools and not to youth recreational facilities and camps.

AEDs are already required in airports and health clubs, but this new law will impose a higher burden on schools.  We believe that this new standard will lead to an increase in claims against schools and school districts that are not in compliance with the law.

While news reports of many schools preparing to comply with the law have been circulated (See here and here), underwriters should start including AED presence and maintenance questions in their application process, and pre-risk surveys. In addition, carriers may wish to conduct additional risk surveys  for existing policies.

Thanks to Alison Weintraub for her contribution.

For more information, contact Denise Fontana Ricci at .