New Law On Ambulance Service In Camden Can Proceed For Now

By David Madden

NEWARK, N.J., (CBS) -- The latest chapter in an ongoing battle over ambulance service in Camden goes to Cooper Health Systems. But that fight is not yet over.

A law that gives Cooper priority over Virtua Health Systems in providing basic life support services within the city limits can now take effect, as legislators intended, this Saturday.

Virtua had convinced a Superior Court Judge last week to find the measure unconstitutional under the guise of "special legislation". The Christie Administration appealed that decision, citing potential damage to Camden residents if the lower court ruling stood.

The appeals court granted a stay to consider the matter which allows the law to proceed. No word on when that appeal might be heard.

Virtua, in a statement, indicated they will ask for a quick reconsideration of the appeals court decision for a stay of the lower court ruling.