The bill amends Section 4 of P.L.1992, c.143 (C.26:2K-57) to enhance the reimbursement process for private agencies, organizations, or entities certified to provide training and testing for volunteer emergency medical technicians (EMTs). It establishes that these entities are eligible for reimbursement from the fund for training costs not otherwise covered, regardless of whether the employing ambulance, first aid, or rescue squad receives payment for emergency medical services. The bill prioritizes reimbursement for initial EMT certification and refresher recertification classes, and mandates prompt payment upon receipt of qualifying applications.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the head of the employing agency regarding the status of EMTs as volunteers in good standing, which requires them to complete at least one service call per month during their initial three-year certification period. If an EMT ceases to be a volunteer in good standing, the agency head may seek reimbursement for training costs from the EMT, except in cases where the EMT leaves to attend a higher education institution. The Department of Health is tasked with overseeing the collection of these funds, and the Commissioner of Health is required to adopt necessary regulations to implement the act. The act will take effect seven months after its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2K-57
Advance Law: 26:2K-57
Pamphlet Law: 26:2K-57