Bill > A4362

This bill establishes a Public Health Institute (PHI) in New Jersey to address systemic public health challenges and health inequities. The legislation creates a framework for the New Jersey Department of Health to partner with a nonprofit organization that will serve as the state's official Public Health Institute, with the primary goal of improving public health systems and services. The PHI will collaborate with various stakeholders including state agencies, local health departments, healthcare providers, academic institutions, and community organizations to coordinate strategies in areas such as policymaking, research, data collection, workforce development, and community interventions. Key provisions include establishing specific criteria for the nonprofit entity, which must be a 501(c)(3) organization recognized by a national public health institute network, and requiring the designated organization to submit operational plans, periodic reports, and comply with department requirements. The bill also creates a special Public Health Institute Fund to support the organization's establishment and maintenance, and authorizes the Commissioner of Health to adopt necessary regulations. The context for this legislation stems from long-standing efforts to create a dedicated public health institute, which were further emphasized by challenges revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a 2022 report highlighting New Jersey's strained public health infrastructure and persistent health inequities.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A4362