The resolution establishes a special committee known as the New Jersey Public Employee Health Care Program Costs Investigation Committee, which will consist of 14 members appointed by the Senate President and the Assembly Speaker. The committee is tasked with investigating the recent increases in premiums and charges for the State Health Benefits Program and School Employees Health Benefits Program, as well as the rationale behind these increases. It will also examine the contract with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, including any disputes and allegations of interference from the Governor's Office regarding the handling of a $34 million contract dispute.
The committee is empowered to conduct hearings, issue subpoenas, and gather evidence to fulfill its mandate. It will also review the implementation of a 2019 law that established subaccounts in the health benefits programs and required the procurement of a third-party medical claims reviewer. Upon completion of its investigation, the committee will issue a report with findings and legislative recommendations aimed at addressing the issues related to health care program costs and contract negotiations. The resolution takes effect immediately and will expire once the committee's investigation concludes.