June 20, 2024

 

(Kingston, NY) – On Tuesday June 18, the Ulster County Legislature unanimously approved Resolution No. 264, utilizing $250,000 of American Rescue Plan Act funding to support the purchase of Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) for youth sports programs and camps. Following the signing of A.366a/S.7424 into law by the Governor last year, all camps and youth sports programs are required to submit to New York State Department of Health an AED Implementation Plan, have an adult present who is trained to use an AED, and make an AED available at every game and practice.

Under Resolution No. 264, introduced by Legislator Joe Maloney (District 2 – Saugerties), Ulster County Camps and Youth Sports AED Equipment Program will provide funding to Organizations within Ulster County which run youth camps, sports, and games to reimburse for qualified training and equipment with a maximum reimbursement of $5,000 per Organization upon the submission of a Cardiac Emergency Implementation Plan.

“"This resolution aims to ease the burden on our largely volunteer-run organizations by assisting with compliance to the state's new unfunded mandate requiring AEDs for games and practices. These machines, costing between $400 and $1500, present a significant expense for our vital community organizations. With county support to mitigate these costs, our leagues and camps can focus on the kids and their games," said Legislator Maloney. "The importance of AEDs was underscored when one saved Bronny James' life during a cardiac event, enabling him most likely pursue his dream of playing in the NBA.”

“As a youth sports coach I understand the paramount importance of medical safety for our players. I look forward to seeing this program implemented by the Executive and seeing our youth sports continue to provide a safe and fun environment for our children,” said Legislator Thomas Corcoran, (District 11 – Marlborough), Chair of the American Rescue Plan Act Special Committee.