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 a designated fund for costs not otherwise covered, regardless of whether the employing ambulance, first aid, or rescue squad receives payment for services. The priority for reimbursement is set for initial EMT certification and refresher recertification classes. Additionally, the bill outlines that reimbursements will be promptly paid upon receipt of qualifying applications and specifies the conditions under which an EMT is considered a volunteer in good standing.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if an EMT ceases to be a volunteer in good standing, the head of the employing agency 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. The bill also clarifies definitions related to volunteer EMTs and higher education institutions. The Commissioner of Health is required to adopt necessary rules and regulations to implement the act, which will take effect seven months after its enactment.

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