Governor Cuomo Signs Briana's Law

Briana Ojeda

Governor Andrew Cuomo today signed legislation, known as Briana's Law, that requires State Police and New York Police Department candidates and officers to receive CPR training prior to graduation and every two years after.

"This common-sense law will give law enforcement the training and the tools that will help save lives," Governor Cuomo said. "CPR is a critical skill and by requiring law enforcement candidates and officers to become certified, we can create a safer New York for all."

The bill (A2115 /S3165) changes the requirement and practice for the NYPD, which is not currently required to complete CPR training and recertification. The new law reinforces the current practice of State Troopers, who are currently required to complete CPR training and recertification every two years.

On August 27, 2010, Briana Ojeda suffered an asthma attack while playing at a local playground. On the way to the hospital, Briana's mother was stopped by a police officer who was unable to perform CPR. Briana died shortly after she got to the hospital.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, or CPR, is a life-saving technique administered when a person's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. CPR keeps oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs, which can keep someone alive until medical assistance can be provided.

The new law will go into effect 60 days from today.

Senator Jesse Hamilton said, "Briana Ojeda and her family have given the gift of life to New Yorkers who turn to help from police. Briana's Law ensures our police officers have the training to provide life-saving assistance in an emergency. Thanks to my colleagues for seeing the wisdom of this measure, thanks to Assistant Speaker Felix Ortiz for his leadership on this issue, and thanks to Carmen and Michael Ojeda, Briana's parents, whose strength, advocacy, and sense of purpose has seen this measure through to legislative passage. Governor Cuomo's signing Briana's Law vindicates a seven-year effort to make communities across New York safer, with police who are more capable of delivering aid in emergencies. This is a legacy truly worthy of Briana Ojeda's memory."

Assemblymember Félix W. Ortiz said, "By requiring NYPD and State Troopers to get certified and recertified in CPR every two years, we help make New York more prepared for life-threatening situations that may arise. I thank Governor Cuomo for signing this critical bill into law today, on the seventh anniversary of Briana's tragic death."

Source: Press Office, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo