Cryan Bill Would Aid Out-of-State Emergency Workers

Legislation Would Ease Reporting Requirements For Those Who Come To NJ As Emergency Responders

TRENTON – Legislation authored by Senator Joe Cryan that would ease reporting requirements that are imposed on skilled out-of-state workers who come to New Jersey in the wake of natural disasters or other emergencies to help restore public services such as power and telecommunications gained the Senate’s approval today.

The bill, S-2518, would recognize the temporary nature of the workers and relax licensing and tax reporting requirements for the men and women who help to repair critical services.

“Emergency response workers who come to New Jersey to help us in response to natural disasters or other emergency conditions should not be deterred by the licensing standards or tax requirements intended for permanent employees,” said Senator Cryan. “They are selflessly helping us in times or urgent need. We don’t want to discourage them from helping.”

The legislation would exclude out-of-State businesses and employees from some of the state and local taxes, fees, and registration requirements ordinarily imposed on in-state businesses when temporarily performing work or services on critical infrastructure in New Jersey during a disaster or declared emergency.

“This bill recognizes the temporary nature of a declared disaster and the need to have emergency workers to repair and maintain vital services, including utilities, telecommunications and vital infrastructure,” said Senator Cryan. “This is about the safety and wellbeing of New Jersey residents in the midst of disaster conditions.”

Senator Cryan noted that 27 states have enacted similar legislation.

The Senate vote was 39 – 0.

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