The bill amends the County Option Hospital Fee Pilot Program Act to clarify definitions and procedures related to the imposition of local healthcare-related fees on hospitals within participating counties in New Jersey. Key definitions are provided, including terms such as "Commissioner," "Department," "Hospital," and "Participating county," which outlines the criteria for counties eligible to participate in the program. The bill establishes that each participating county must submit a proposed fee and expenditure report to the Commissioner of Human Services, detailing how the fee will be imposed and how the funds will be utilized to support local hospitals and low-income citizens.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the participating counties and the Commissioner in reviewing and approving the proposed fee and expenditure plans. It specifies that the fees must comply with federal regulations and sets limits on the maximum amount that can be assessed. The bill also includes provisions regarding the liability of the state and counties for unpaid fees and impermissible expenditures, as well as the potential liability of hospitals that exceed their disproportionate share limits. The act is set to take effect immediately upon approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4D-7
Advance Law: 30:4D-7
Pamphlet Law: 30:4D-7