Bill to Further Protect Line Workers Advances to Governor’s Desk

October 22, 2026

HARRISBURG – On Wednesday, the General Assembly sent to the governor legislation to require automated external defibrillators (AEDs) at utility and electrical worksites, announced Rep. Jason Ortitay (R-Washington/Allegheny).

Senate Bill 1328 is identical to Ortitay and Rep. Rob Matzie’s (D-Beaver) House Bill 2480.

“Line workers routinely work on energized electrical systems, at significant heights, in confined spaces and in all weather conditions, often during storms and disasters,” Ortitay said. “Sudden cardiac arrest is a constant risk due to electrical shock, extreme exertion or trauma. Pennsylvania law already requires AEDs in schools, hotels, health clubs and coal mines. It only makes sense to add them at utility worksites.”

“AEDs save lives,” said Matzie. “It’s imperative that these devices are located at critical locations. Electric linework job sites are one of those locations. I was proud to work with Rep. Ortitay in a bipartisan way, both on our bill and in conjunction with the Senate bill that passed the House on Wednesday.”

Senate Bill 1328 would require all utility and electrical worksites, and their contractors or subcontractors, to have at least one AED and at least two employees trained in CPR and AED use present at each worksite. Any person who renders care in good faith with an AED at a worksite would be protected under Good Samaritan civil immunity.

The governor has 10 days to decide whether to sign the bill into law.

The 46th Legislative District includes South Fayette Township and McDonald and Oakdale boroughs in Allegheny County. It also encompasses Cecil, Chartiers, Mt. Pleasant and North Strabane (Districts 6,7,8 and 9) townships and Canonsburg, Houston and McDonald boroughs in Washington County.



Representative Jason Ortitay
46th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Tracy Polovick
717.260.6358
tpolovick@pahousegop.com