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EMS Task Force urges stable funding as volunteers and surge capacity dwindle
Summary
The New Jersey EMS Task Force told the Senate committee it faces potential closure without sustainable funding, estimating roughly $6 million annually to sustain statewide surge capacity; county officials urged caution about diverting 9‑1‑1 fees.
Representatives of the New Jersey EMS Task Force told the Senate Law and Public Safety Committee that the volunteer network that provides statewide surge medical capacity is near unsustainable without stable funding.
Michael Bascom, testifying for the EMS Task Force, described a statewide volunteer network of more than 260 members and 60 host agencies that provides surge ambulances, mass‑casualty planning, hospital evacuation support and major‑incident response. Bascom said the task force has been sustained through grants and ad‑hoc appropriations but now needs a permanent funding source. "If we cease operations... the consequences for New Jersey will be catastrophic and far reaching," Bascom said.
When asked about funding levels, a witness estimated the program needs roughly $6,000,000 annually to continue core operations, maintain equipment and provide surge capacity across every county. Committee members discussed possible funding sources and caps; John Donati of the New Jersey Association of Counties urged caution and opposed further diversion of 9‑1‑1 fees that counties rely on for center operations, recounting the long history of fee diversion and urging the state to restore 9‑1‑1 funding priorities.
Senators said they want a clear definition of allowable uses and safeguards against double diversion of funds. Committee staff and stakeholders agreed to continue discussions on a sustainable funding model that balances county needs and the task force’s statewide role.
