Permits members of Community Emergency Response Teams to perform traffic duties under certain circumstances.
Impact
If enacted, A2679 would formally expand the responsibilities of CERT members, enabling them to assume certain traffic management roles that may temporarily help alleviate the burden on law enforcement agencies during emergencies. The training required for appointment includes completion of a course approved by the New Jersey Police Training Commission, ensuring that volunteers are equipped with the skills necessary to handle traffic while awaiting the arrival of law enforcement officers.
Summary
Bill A2679 introduces provisions that enable members of Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) to perform specific traffic control duties during emergencies or disasters. This act allows these volunteer teams to appoint qualified members who, after completing specified training and passing a physical exam, can manage traffic in support of law enforcement. The intent behind this bill is to enhance public safety and streamline emergency response efforts by utilizing well-trained volunteers during critical situations.
Contention
Some points of contention may arise concerning the scope of authority granted to CERT traffic officers. Although the bill establishes that these volunteers cannot supersede law enforcement officers, there may be concerns regarding the potential for confusion in authority during emergencies. Stakeholders might question the adequacy of volunteer training and the implications of having non-police personnel perform duties typically reserved for law enforcement, potentially raising issues of liability and the appropriateness of such delegation.
Final_notes
The bill aims to clearly define the role of CERT in managing traffic during emergencies and specifies the necessary qualifications for traffic officers as well as the terms under which they may operate. A major highlight is the protection from civil liability granted to volunteer officers acting in good faith within their training parameters, which may encourage more individuals to participate in such volunteer roles, thus enhancing community emergency preparedness.
Relating to civil liability; to amend Section 6-5-332, Code of Alabama 1975, to limit the liability of members of any community emergency response team who perform emergency care at the scene of an accident or disaster.
"Honoring and Listening to Our First Responders Act"; establishes offense of interfering with official duties of first responder under certain circumstances.
"Honoring and Listening to Our First Responders Act"; establishes offense of interfering with official duties of first responder under certain circumstances.