Waterford Today

State Representative Mike Harris's bipartisan initiative to advance "Stop the Bleed" training and emergency intervention is moving forward in the legislative process. The House Judiciary Committee has given unanimous approval to House Bills 5741-5743, which aim to teach high school students effective bleeding control techniques and offer legal protections for those who attempt to save lives by preventing blood loss.

Harris, a retired police sergeant and former EMT, expressed his appreciation for the committee's support. "After an injury, prompt intervention to apply pressure to a wound and stop blood loss saves people’s lives," said Harris, R-Waterford. "Everyone should know the best first aid tactics so they’ll be prepared in an emergency. That’s why our bipartisan plan will require students to learn how to stop the bleed while still in high school. Our plan will also prevent frivolous lawsuits against the good people who responsibly try to save lives. By providing training and legal protection, we’ll encourage Michiganders to do their part to step in and help their neighbors until first responders arrive."

House Bill 5741 mandates that high school health courses include instruction on stopping bleeding using tourniquets, bandages, and other equipment found in first aid response kits. According to the Michigan Merit Curriculum, students must complete a half-credit in health as part of their graduation requirements.

Representatives Carrie Rheingans, D-Ann Arbor, and Dave Prestin, R-Cedar River introduced House Bills 5742 and 5743. These bills propose adding bleeding control measures under the state's Good Samaritan law, which currently protects individuals from legal liability when administering opioid antagonists or performing CPR during emergencies. However, individuals would remain liable for actions considered grossly negligent or amounting to willful misconduct.

This legislative effort aligns with the national Stop the Bleed campaign aimed at raising awareness about bleeding control techniques.