This bill mandates the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS) within the Department of Human Services to establish a minimum reimbursement rate of $950.00 per day for pediatric special care nursing facilities (SCNFs) that participate in the New Jersey Medicaid and NJ FamilyCare programs. These facilities provide specialized long-term care and rehabilitation services to medically fragile children and youth up to 21 years of age. The bill stipulates that eligibility for this minimum reimbursement rate is contingent upon the facilities' compliance with relevant State and federal laws and regulations regarding licensure, patient safety, and quality of care.

Additionally, the bill authorizes the Commissioner of Human Services to apply for necessary State plan amendments or waivers to ensure federal financial participation in the Medicaid program and the Children's Health Insurance Program. It also includes an appropriation from the General Fund to the Department of Human Services to cover the costs associated with implementing this reimbursement rate increase. Currently, there are four pediatric SCNFs in New Jersey that participate in these programs.