Assembly Bill No. 4362 - Public Health Institute

Sponsored by:

• Assemblyman Herb Conaway, Jr. (District 7 - Burlington)
• Assemblywoman Shanique Speight (District 29 - Essex and Hudson)

Synopsis

This bill proposes the designation and establishment of a Public Health Institute in New Jersey.

Description

The purpose of this bill is to create a Public Health Institute in New Jersey. Public health institutes are independent organizations that work with public and private stakeholders to improve public health outcomes and address health inequities. Currently, there are over 40 public health institutes in the United States.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a public health institute in New Jersey. The institute would collaborate with healthcare officials and providers to ensure a coordinated and equitable response to any public health emergency.

In order to establish a framework for the relationship between the State government and the Public Health Institute, the New Jersey Department of Health will engage in a public-private partnership. The Public Health Institute will work with state departments, private sector healthcare providers, academic institutions, philanthropic organizations, and community groups to improve public health in New Jersey.

The bill establishes criteria for the designation of the Public Health Institute. The institute should be a nonprofit organization located in New Jersey, recognized by a national public health institute association, and possess the capacity to coordinate public health functions at the local, county, and statewide level.

The Public Health Institute will have various responsibilities, including coordinating public health services, providing administrative and operational support, developing and implementing programs to improve public health outcomes and address disparities, promoting workforce development and research, and engaging in charitable programs.

The Commissioner of Health will establish an agreement with the Public Health Institute, and the institute will be required to comply with applicable laws, consult with the Department of Health, submit operational plans and progress reports, provide necessary information and assistance, and report data to the department.

The bill also creates a special fund, the Public Health Institute Fund, which will be dedicated to supporting the establishment and maintenance of the Public Health Institute and its programs.

Effective Date

This bill will take effect immediately upon enactment.