This bill mandates the issuance of tourniquets to all State, county, and municipal law enforcement officers in New Jersey, as well as requiring that every basic life support ambulance and mobility assistance vehicle be equipped with a tourniquet while in service. The funding for the tourniquets provided to law enforcement officers may be sourced from forfeiture funds collected under N.J.S.2C:64-6, with the amount determined by the Attorney General. Additionally, the Attorney General is empowered to create guidelines or directives to ensure the effective implementation and enforcement of these provisions.
The bill reflects a growing recognition of the life-saving potential of tourniquets, which have seen a resurgence in use following their historical decline. The sponsors argue that equipping law enforcement officers and emergency service vehicles with tourniquets is essential for enhancing public safety and improving emergency response outcomes. The bill is set to take effect on the first day of the third month following its enactment.