Garden State Times

Senator Parker Space's efforts to address the ongoing shortage of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) in New Jersey have taken a significant step forward as his legislation, S-2435, has been approved by the New Jersey Senate.

Senator Space highlighted the challenges faced by EMS and rescue squads in the state, emphasizing the difficulties in recruiting volunteers and retaining staff. He expressed concern over the toll the shortage has taken on EMTs, with crew members being forced to work double shifts, impacting their mental and physical well-being. Senator Space stated, “Throughout the state, EMS and rescue squads are having difficulty recruiting volunteers and retaining staff. This shortage has even led to crew members working double shifts, which is taking a significant toll on the mental and physical health of our EMTs.”

The Senator further explained the implications of the current situation, noting that volunteer squads have resorted to using paid EMTs due to the shortage, which in turn affects the eligibility of the agency providing training for reimbursement from the State’s Training Fund. Senator Space outlined the solution proposed in his bill, stating, “To address this issue, my bill would shift the focus for reimbursement—from requiring the EMS squad to be all volunteer, to ensuring that the squads with EMTs who are trained to work as volunteers in some capacity are eligible.”

S-2435 aims to revise the requirements for receiving reimbursement from the “Emergency Medical Technician Training Fund,” broaden the eligibility criteria for entities seeking reimbursement, and ensure prompt payment of reimbursements upon receipt of a qualifying application. The bill is designed to support EMS squads in overcoming staffing challenges and providing essential services to communities across the state.

For those interested in reviewing the full details of the bill, it is available for viewing. Additional comments or background information from Senator Space can be obtained by contacting Jonathan Azzara in the SRO communications department.