This bill codifies and expands the rescue doctrine in New Jersey, allowing certain rescuers to recover damages for injuries sustained while attempting to aid individuals or property that are in peril due to another's tortious conduct. The legislation clarifies that if a person's wrongful actions endanger another person or their property, the liable party is responsible for any harm that results from the rescuer's efforts to provide assistance, as long as the harm arises from inherent risks associated with the rescue attempt.

The bill aligns New Jersey law with the majority of states by incorporating findings from the New Jersey Law Revision Commission's Final Report on the Rescue Doctrine. This expansion is particularly relevant in light of the New Jersey Supreme Court's decision in Samolyk v. Berthe, which highlighted the need for a broader interpretation of the rescue doctrine to include injuries sustained while protecting property. The bill aims to ensure that rescuers are adequately compensated for their efforts, thereby reinforcing the social value of altruistic actions in emergency situations.