This bill establishes a two-year pilot program aimed at enhancing the recruitment, training, and retention of qualified health care professionals at New Jersey's veterans memorial homes located in Menlo Park, Paramus, and Vineland. The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) will oversee the program, which includes the creation of a clinical scholarship program funded by the Workforce Development Partnership Fund. The DMVA will reimburse education costs for certified nurse assistants and other qualified personnel pursuing nursing degrees, contingent upon their commitment to work at a veterans memorial home for at least two years post-education. Additionally, the bill introduces a recruitment bonus program for registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, with bonuses not exceeding $6,000, payable in installments over two years.

The bill also mandates the DMVA to compile a list of specialized training programs focusing on critical areas such as infection control and PTSD management for health care personnel. An annual report will be submitted by the Adjutant General to the Governor and the Legislature, detailing the program's participation and effectiveness in improving recruitment and retention of health care staff. The total appropriation for this initiative is $370,000, with $120,000 allocated for recruitment bonuses and $250,000 for educational reimbursements.