Permits members of Community Emergency Response Teams to perform traffic duties under certain circumstances.
Impact
The bill addresses gaps in emergency response capabilities by granting authority to CERT members to manage traffic, thereby assisting police during crisis situations. By implementing this legislation, the New Jersey state law will potentially increase the efficiency of emergency operations, as CERT members can step in during critical moments, reducing the burden on law enforcement officials who are often stretched thin during emergencies.
Summary
Senate Bill S850 permits members of Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) to perform specific traffic duties during emergencies or disasters. The bill allows a duly organized volunteer CERT to appoint members as traffic officers for a term of up to five years. To qualify, members must pass a physical examination, complete a basic training course approved by the New Jersey Police Training Commission, and take an oath to impartially discharge theirduties. This initiative aims to enhance emergency response efforts by enabling trained volunteers to assist in managing traffic and crowd control at public events or accident sites until law enforcement officers arrive.
Contention
While the bill offers potential benefits in emergency management, there may be concerns regarding the scope of authority granted to non-law enforcement personnel. Critics could argue that allowing CERT members to manage traffic may lead to confusion or overlaps in responsibilities between trained law enforcement officers and volunteers. Furthermore, questions about liability and the adequacy of training for CERT members might arise, putting the safety of the public at risk during actual emergencies.
"Honoring and Listening to Our First Responders Act"; establishes offense of interfering with official duties of first responder under certain circumstances.
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.