The proposed bill establishes the New Jersey Board of Paramedicine, which will oversee the licensure and regulation of emergency medical services professionals, including mobile intensive care paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), flight paramedics, and flight nurses. The board will consist of 15 members appointed by the Governor, with specific qualifications related to residency, education, and experience. It will have the authority to set licensure standards, conduct investigations, manage training program accreditation, and maintain a registry of trained individuals. The bill also mandates criminal history background checks for licensees, requires reporting of arrests or convictions, and introduces penalties for false statements.

Additionally, the bill creates two funds: the Board of Paramedicine Fund to support board operations and research, and the Emergency Medical Technician Training Fund to assist with EMT training. It establishes an Emergency Medical Services for Children Advisory Council and outlines the development of a training curriculum for emergency responders regarding autism and developmental disabilities. The bill amends existing laws to clarify the definitions and responsibilities of health care professionals, particularly EMTs, and introduces a $1 fee to traffic fines to support the Board of Paramedicine Fund. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the regulatory framework for emergency medical services in New Jersey, improve accountability, and ensure the safety and quality of care provided.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:1-28, 26:2K-12, 2A:62A-1.3, 2A:62A-19, 26:2-190, 39:3-27.59, 39:3C-1, 43:15A-43, 52:3-12, 52:27D-407