New Jersey Senate Bill S1743

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22

Caption

Requires issuance of temporary emergency medical services certifications.

Impact

The bill specifies that for the duration of a declared state of emergency or public health emergency, the Commissioner of Health can issue provisional certifications without requiring the traditional prerequisites normally necessary for certification reinstatement. This includes the ability to temporarily reactivate the certifications of inactive paramedics and grant temporary reciprocity to out-of-state paramedics who meet certain criteria. The focus on streamlining the process reflects a critical need to maintain an operational workforce in emergency medical services during public health crises.

Summary

Senate Bill S1743, introduced by Senator Anthony M. Bucco, aims to facilitate the issuance of temporary emergency medical services certifications. This bill amends existing legislation (P.L.2020, c.18) to mandate that the Commissioner of Health grants provisional certifications to emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics, including those whose certifications have recently expired. These provisional certifications are intended to address personnel shortages in the healthcare response system during emergency situations, particularly those arising from the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Contention

The bill's provisions, particularly the waiving of typical certification requirements and the expedited processing of applications, have sparked discussions regarding the balance of immediate healthcare needs with regulatory integrity. Supporters argue that such measures are essential for enhancing the state's emergency response capabilities, while opponents express concerns that reduced certification requirements could compromise the quality and readiness of emergency medical services. Endorsements from various health agencies suggest a consensus on the urgency of these changes, yet concerns remain about the long-term implications for certification standards.