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 and requirements, including minimum staffing standards for emergency medical service units and a new category for mobility assistance vehicle service providers. 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, and criminal history background checks are mandated for all licensure and certification applicants. The bill also emphasizes compliance with established standards to enhance the quality and safety of emergency medical services.

Key amendments include the stipulation that individuals cannot be disqualified from licensure based solely on criminal convictions if they can demonstrate rehabilitation. Specific factors for assessing rehabilitation are outlined, such as the nature of the offense and evidence of good conduct. The bill also establishes new provisions for the licensure of emergency medical responders and mobility assistance vehicle operators, requiring successful completion of approved educational programs and examinations. Additionally, it mandates the submission of electronic patient care reports for non-emergency medical transportation services and requires hospitals to provide data on patient referrals and transfers. The Department of Health is tasked with maintaining a register of applicants and conducting studies on the quality of 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