On February 24, Associate Policy Director Sarah Sample submitted written testimony to the Judiciary Committee in opposition to HB 32 – Local Law Enforcement Vehicles – Requirements – Automated External Defibrillators. 

This bill requires each local law enforcement vehicle to carry an automated external defibrillator (AED) and maintain the functionality and certification of each AED.

While counties strongly support timely, high-quality emergency medical response and already coordinate closely across law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services to deploy lifesaving equipment when needed, this proposal imposes a significant new equipment and administrative mandate without dedicated funding. Counties caution that the bill would strain local budgets while duplicating existing emergency response efforts.

From MACo Testimony: 

While HB 32 attempts to make AED machines more widely available, it adds a costly equipment requirement, as well as ongoing administrative work, without providing corresponding resources. Counties are responsible for the purchase and maintenance of equipment required by local law enforcement agencies and estimate that HB 32 could cost upwards of $10-14 million statewide.

More on MACo’s Advocacy: 

• Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2026 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database
• Learn more about MACo’s 2026 Legislative Initiatives
• Read more General Assembly News on MACo’s Conduit Street blog