NJ A3757

Designates basic life support (BLS) services as an essential service in New Jersey, requiring every municipality to provide BLS and ambulance services to meet population needs.

Municipalities may fulfill this requirement through four options: licensing/franchising a private company, contracting with public/private/nonprofit entities, entering mutual aid agreements with other municipalities, or partnering with hospitals.

Amends existing law to include basic life support services in mutual aid agreement provisions between municipalities, covering terms for payment, equipment damage reimbursement, and injury compensation.

Appropriates funds from the General Fund to the Department of Health to reimburse municipalities for costs of establishing BLS as an essential service, subject to certification by the Commissioner of Health.

Takes effect on the first day of the seventh month following enactment.