This bill proposes a supplemental appropriation of $500,000 to the Division of Community Health within the Department of Health (DOH) specifically for the Huntington's Disease Grant Program. The funds will be allocated to support grants for institutions of higher education, non-profit organizations, or New Jersey-based research organizations to provide essential services such as pre-symptomatic testing, neurology and psychiatry services, neurophysiological evaluations, treatment, disease management, and counseling for individuals living with or at risk for Huntington's disease. This appropriation will increase the total funding for the program from an estimated $200,437 to $700,437 for the fiscal year 2023.

Huntington's disease is a hereditary and fatal condition that leads to the progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the brain, significantly impacting physical and mental abilities during a person's prime working years. The disease manifests in various symptoms similar to those of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. In New Jersey, it is estimated that between 900 to 1,200 residents are currently living with Huntington's disease, with an additional 7,000 individuals considered at risk. The bill aims to enhance support for these individuals and their families through increased funding for critical health services.