The Michigan House of Representatives on Wednesday approved state Rep. Mike Harris’ bipartisan plan to promote “Stop the Bleed” training and emergency intervention.

Specifically, House Bills 5741-5743 would teach high school students proper bleeding control techniques and provide liability protections for people who attempt to prevent blood loss. Harris, a retired police sergeant and former EMT, said the bills will help Michiganders save lives.

“During my career as a law enforcement officer and emergency medical technician, I’ve witnessed firsthand the vital importance of Stop the Bleed training,” said Harris, R-Waterford. “Our bipartisan plan will teach people how to Stop the Bleed and protect the everyday heroes who do just that.”

Harris’ HB 5741 would require high school health courses to include instruction on how to stop bleeding using tourniquets, bandages, and other equipment in first aid response kits. Under the Michigan Merit Curriculum, students must complete a half credit in health to graduate high school.

“The science is clear: Prompt intervention saves lives,” Harris said. “In emergency situations, every second counts, and having the knowledge to act quickly can mean the difference between life and death before an ambulance arrives. Incorporating Stop the Bleed training into our schools would equip students across the state with these life-saving skills. Our schools have already seen significant success in implementing CPR and AED instruction into their curriculum. My bill will build on this success and give our kids the proper training they need to help in life-threatening circumstances.”

HBs 5742 and 5743, introduced by Reps. Carrie Rheingans, D-Ann Arbor, and Dave Prestin, R-Cedar River, would add bleeding control to the state’s Good Samaritan law, which protects individuals from legal liability for attempting to save lives in certain emergencies. The law currently applies to administration of an opioid antagonist, CPR, and other emergency response situations. A person would still be liable for acts and omissions that amount to gross negligence or willful and wanton misconduct.

“These bills will encourage people to intervene and Stop the Bleed without fear,” Harris said. “When Good Samaritans step in to stop blood loss, they shouldn’t be putting themselves in legal jeopardy. Our plan will block frivolous lawsuits against Michiganders who do their best to save lives.”

The plan promoting bleeding control aligns with the national Stop the Bleed campaign, which raises awareness and facilitates training about bleeding control tactics.

After passing the House with overwhelming bipartisan support, the bills now advance to the Senate for consideration.