N.J. Bill Would Protect Responders From Being Sued

A bill that would protect first responders from being sued when they forcibly enter a property to provide emergency assistance will be heard in the state Assembly's Homeland Security and State Preparedness Committee Thursday.

"Rescue crews often have to take drastic action to get to a victim inside," John Amodeo, R-Atlantic, said in a press release issued Wednesday. "Sometimes they have to break the door down. In a life threatening situation, they should only have to think about what they do best, which is saving lives."

The bill, A2099, will be heard Thursday at 2 p.m.

In the press release, Amodeo and Chris Brown, R-Atlantic, recalled the story of former Mays Landing resident Jaclyn Aldean.

Aldean died in 2009 after she was experiencing a medical emergency, but could not speak. First responders went to her West Hollywood, Calif. home after she called for help multiple times.

But since the door was locked and Aldean did not respond to knocks at the door, emergency personnel left. She was later found dead on the floor.

Brown and Amodeo said it was important to protect public and private first responders from liability associated with damage sustained to homes, businesses and other structures when they are responding.

"Our firefighters, police and emergency medical services personnel put their lives on the line everyday to help others," Brown said in the press release. "Their job is difficult enough. Rescue workers shouldn't have to choose between saving a life or getting sued."

The Senate version of the bill, S1416, was introduced Feb. 6 and was referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. It was sponsored by Sen. Jim Whelan, D-Atlantic.

Copyright 2012 - The Press of Atlantic City, Pleasantville, N.J.

McClatchy-Tribune News Service