NJ A977

Establishes the New Jersey Board of Paramedicine as an 11-member body consisting of 4 mobile intensive care paramedics, 2 emergency medical technicians, 3 physicians (emergency medicine, trauma surgery, and pediatric emergency medicine), and 2 public members appointed by the Governor.

Transfers licensing and regulatory authority for paramedics and EMTs from the Department of Health to the new board, which will issue licenses, set scope of practice standards, prescribe training curricula, and accredit paramedicine schools.

Requires criminal history background checks for all licensees, with checks conducted at least every two years for license renewal, and disqualifies individuals convicted of crimes involving danger to persons, theft, controlled substances, or offenses against family members.

Creates a "Board of Paramedicine Fund" funded through motor vehicle violations (R.S.39:5-41) to support board operations, provider training, research, and licensure application costs.

Establishes an Alternative to Discipline Program for licensees suffering from chemical dependency or impairment, including a five-member committee to oversee confidential treatment and recovery plans.