North Michigan News

Rep. Ken Borton on Thursday announced his support for a bipartisan plan aimed at helping individuals save lives by preventing blood loss. The proposed legislation seeks to provide liability protections for those attempting to stop bleeding wounds and ensure high school students are educated in bleeding control techniques.

“Expanding the Good Samaritan Law and high school curriculums to include bleeding control equips Michiganders with the tools they need to act swiftly and confidently in emergencies,” said Borton, R-Gaylord. “This initiative embodies our shared commitment to safety. It’s about preparedness, and it’s about taking care of each other.”

House Bills 5742 and 5743 propose adding bleeding control measures to the state’s Good Samaritan Law, which currently offers legal protection for individuals administering opioid antagonists, CPR, and other emergency responses. The new provisions would not protect against acts or omissions amounting to gross negligence or willful misconduct.

House Bill 5741 mandates that high school health courses incorporate instruction and hands-on training on how to stop bleeding using tourniquets, bandages, and other first-aid response equipment. According to the Michigan Merit Curriculum, students must complete a half-credit in health to graduate from high school.

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