FAQ: Cadiac Arrest Survival Act

1.  What is the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act (CASA) of 2000?

The Cardiac Arrest Survival Act (CASA) of 2000 was passed due to the findings from a Sudden Cardiac Arrest study.  It was determined that approximately 700 people in the United States are lost every day due to SCA.  Approximately 5% of the victims of Sudden Cardiac Arrest will survive.  Congress agreed that it was important to place AEDs in federal buildings to decrease the amount of deaths that could occur due to Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

2.  What is the purpose of the CASA Act of 2000?

The purpose of the CASA Act of 2000 is to create awareness about AEDs and Sudden Cardiac Arrest.  Due to the fact that so many Americans die each year from SCA, it is important to have the proper medical equipment on site to treat SCA.  Since it takes emergency responders approximately 10-12 minutes to respond, the chances of survival from SCA is minimal.  By placing AEDs in federal buildings allows for the survival rate to increase significantly. 

3.  Who does the CASA Act of 2000 affect?

The CASA Act of 2000 was created to institute AED programs in federal buildings. 

4.  Who is protected by the CASA Act of 2000?

The CASA Act of 2000 has a Good Samaritan clause.  Any good samaritan that attempts to aid an individual suffering from SCA by using an AED and performing CPR is free of any liability if the victim becomes injured or dies.  Any medical responder that aids an individual suffering from SCA by using an AED and performing CPR is free of liability as long as they have followed the proper medical guidelines for using the meidcal equipment and CPR.  Any federal organization that purchases an AED is free from liability as long as it has notified the proper authorities of the medical equipment, has maintained and performed tests on the medical equipment and it has provided training to employees.

To view the details about the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act (CASA) of 2000, CLICK HERE