This bill seeks to improve the licensure and certification processes for emergency medical responders, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and mobility assistance vehicle operators in New Jersey. It introduces new definitions for these roles and establishes minimum staffing requirements for emergency medical service units. The Commissioner of Health is granted the authority to summarily suspend licenses if an individual's continued licensure poses a threat to public health and safety. Additionally, the bill mandates criminal history background checks for all candidates seeking licensure or certification, ensuring that those with certain criminal convictions are disqualified. It also allows individuals to demonstrate rehabilitation to avoid disqualification based on past convictions.

Moreover, the bill outlines specific requirements for the licensure of emergency medical responders and mobility assistance vehicle operators, including the completion of educational programs and passing examinations. It requires the Department of Health to maintain a register of applicants and mandates the submission of electronic patient care reports for non-emergency medical transportation services. The bill also introduces provisions for the transportation of students with special needs, allowing designated personnel to transport them without needing a school bus driver license, provided they meet certain qualifications. Lastly, it repeals outdated laws related to EMT designations that are no longer applicable, streamlining the regulatory framework for emergency medical services in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2K-7, 26:2K-9, 26:2K-13, 26:2K-14, 26:2K-20, 26:2K-65, 26:2K-65.1, 26:2K-65.2, 26:2K-65.3, 26:2K-66, 18A:39-20.1, 30:4D-6.2, 30:4D-6.4