At just 13 months old, my beloved niece tragically lost her life due to a heart condition known as a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) while at her daycare center. This heartbreaking incident not only shattered our family but also brought to light a critical issue: the center did not have an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on site. This absence of life-saving equipment in early childhood centers can result in preventable tragedies like the one my family experienced.

In the United States, an estimated 9,500 children experience sudden cardiac arrest each year as reported by the Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes Foundation. While not all cases are fatal, without timely intervention, many of these children's lives are at risk. Having an AED on site can be the difference between life and death. Early defibrillation, within minutes of cardiac arrest, can significantly improve the chances of survival.

Daycare centers and early childhood centers are a second home for our children. They should be equipped with the necessary tools to respond to emergencies. Currently, many states do not mandate AEDs in these facilities, leaving our youngest and most vulnerable at risk. This lack of regulation needs urgent change.

We propose legislation requiring all early childhood and daycare centers to have AEDs on premises. Staff are already required to be CPR and AED certified to stay employed. Funding for AEDs should be provided or subsidized by government programs to ensure that all centers, regardless of financial standing, can comply.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for the safety and protection of all children in daycare facilities. Together, we can prevent further tragic losses and ensure that our children are safe and cared for in all aspects of their lives. Please join us in urging lawmakers to take action and prioritize the health and safety of our children by mandating AEDs in all early childhood centers and daycare facilities. Sign this petition and help save lives.