This bill amends existing laws to expand the authority of emergency management departments in New Jersey, allowing them to request assistance from various emergency service providers outside their normal territorial jurisdictions. Specifically, it enables municipal emergency management coordinators, mayors, and chief executive officers to seek help from volunteer first aid, ambulance, or rescue squads, as well as fire and police departments from other municipalities. The bill also stipulates that the personnel and equipment provided in response to such requests must be supplied to the extent possible without endangering individuals or property in the assisting municipality.

Additionally, the bill ensures that emergency management personnel receive the same rights and protections as members of police and fire departments when they are injured or killed while providing assistance outside their usual jurisdictions. This includes entitlement to salary, pension rights, workers' compensation, and other benefits as if the incident had occurred within their normal operating area. The legislation aims to enhance collaboration and support among emergency services during emergencies, thereby improving overall public safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2K-60, 40A:14-156.1, 40A:14-156.2, 40A:14-156.3