This bill expands the authority to operate emergency warning lights and sirens on personal vehicles to include county fire coordinators, deputy county fire coordinators, county emergency medical services coordinators, and deputy county emergency medical services coordinators, in addition to the existing members of volunteer fire companies and first aid squads. The bill mandates that these officials must obtain identification cards from the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, which will be issued upon request from a county executive or board director. The identification cards must be carried while operating the emergency lights, and the lights cannot be mounted until the cards are issued.

The bill also clarifies that individuals authorized to operate emergency warning lights do not receive any special privileges or exemptions compared to other drivers and must adhere to all traffic laws. The provisions ensure that while these officials can respond to emergencies with the necessary equipment, they are still required to drive safely and responsibly. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance emergency response capabilities while maintaining public safety on the roads.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39:3-54.7, 39:3-54.11, 39:3-54.12, 39:3-54.15, 39:3-54.16, 39:3-54.17, 39:3-54.18, 39:3-54.19