TRENTON – The Senate Health, Human Services, and Senior Citizens Committee advanced legislation to require the Department of Health (DOH) to develop a comprehensive Statewide Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Plan aimed at improving coordination, access, and quality of emergency medical care across New Jersey.

The bill, S-1772, sponsored by Senators Troy Singleton and James Beach, would establish a Statewide EMS Plan within the Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS). The plan would set short and long-term goals to create a more coordinated, efficient EMS system, while allowing for regional EMS plans tailored to the specific needs of communities throughout the State.

“Every minute matters during a medical emergency, yet too many communities experience delays, staffing shortages, or gaps in care,” said Senator Troy Singleton (D-Burlington). “This legislation creates a clear roadmap for strengthening our EMS system by improving coordination, investing in personnel, modernizing communications, and ensuring that no matter where you live in New Jersey, you can count on timely, high-quality emergency medical care.”

Under the bill, OEMS would be required to conduct a comprehensive inventory of EMS resources, assess the effectiveness of the current system, identify gaps in access or performance, and establish measurable performance standards. The plan would be reviewed and updated every three years to reflect evolving needs, emerging best practices, and changes in population or geography. Regional EMS plans, developed jointly by county boards of health, would be incorporated into the Statewide plan upon approval.

“EMS providers are facing unprecedented challenges, from workforce shortages and financial instability to increasing call volumes and mental health strain,” said Senator James Beach (D-Camden/Burlington). “This bill takes a system-wide approach, focusing not only on response times and patient outcomes, but also on supporting the well-being of EMS personnel and strengthening the infrastructure they rely on every day.”

In addition, the bill will establish statewide crisis intervention and peer support services for EMS and public safety personnel, recognizing the high rates of stress, trauma, and mental health challenges faced by first responders. It will expand and coordinate emergency medical response teams to assist local providers during mass casualty incidents, disasters, or times when local resources are overwhelmed.

Currently, New Jersey’s EMS system faces significant strain, particularly in underserved and rural areas where response times are longer, and staffing shortages are more acute. Because EMS is not designated as an essential service in the state, many squads rely heavily on fundraising and grants, creating instability and uneven access to care.

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