New Jersey Senate Bill S991

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Report Pass: 2/8/24
• Refer: 2/8/24

Caption

Establishes permanent unit in Office of Emergency Management to address access and functional needs of residents related to disasters and emergencies.

Impact

The bill mandates that this new unit will assess the needs of residents with access and functional needs, evaluate resource availability, and coordinate with local emergency management offices to implement best practices. This legislative action reflects a commitment to inclusivity and preparedness, especially for populations adversely impacted by past disasters. Given that a significant portion of New Jersey's population—almost 25% as reported in 2018—has a disability, the bill aims not only to enhance service delivery to these residents but also to mitigate future risks associated with disasters.

Summary

Bill S991 establishes a permanent unit within the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management aimed at addressing the access and functional needs of residents during disasters and emergencies. The establishment of this unit arises from the recognition of the vulnerabilities faced by residents with disabilities, older adults, and other at-risk groups, particularly as demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. This legislation is intended to ensure that these populations receive appropriate assistance before, during, and after emergencies, highlighting a pressing public interest in safeguarding their well-being during crises.

Contention

While the bill appears largely supportive and functional, discussions surrounding its implementation may touch upon the adequacy of resources allocated to this new unit and the effectiveness of inter-agency coordination. Some stakeholders may question whether the establishment of this unit will lead to meaningful changes in disaster response or if it represents merely an administrative shift without substantial impacts on ground-level services. Ensuring that this unit operates efficiently and effectively in real-time emergency situations will be crucial for its success.