This bill proposes to increase the annual allocation of cigarette and other tobacco products tax revenues to the New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research (NJCCR) from $1 million to $10 million. It establishes a dedicated, non-lapsing Cancer Research Fund within the Department of the Treasury, which will serve as the repository for these funds and any additional funds approved by the Department of Health or the NJCCR. The bill mandates that at least $5 million of the fund be allocated for general cancer research and another $5 million for pediatric cancer research, ensuring a balanced approach to funding various cancer research initiatives.

Additionally, the bill repeals the existing provision that allows for the lapsing of the Cancer Research Fund, thereby ensuring that the funds remain available for their intended purpose without the risk of being transferred to the General Fund. The State Treasurer will act as the custodian of the new fund, overseeing disbursements and investments, with all transactions requiring authorization from the NJCCR chairperson or their designee. This legislative change aims to enhance the NJCCR's capacity to address cancer research comprehensively, particularly focusing on reducing disparities in cancer care among minority and vulnerable populations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 54:40A-37.1, 52:9U-8