The Cancer Patient Care and Compassion Act aims to provide comprehensive protections and support for individuals diagnosed with Stage III, Stage IV, or terminal cancer in New Jersey. The bill mandates that health insurance carriers, including those associated with the State Health Benefits Program and Medicaid, must cover parenteral treatment, survivorship care plans, and any additional services deemed necessary by regulators, without imposing any cost-sharing requirements. Furthermore, the bill prohibits residential mortgage lenders from initiating foreclosure actions against mortgage debtors undergoing cancer treatment and requires that any collection proceedings against individuals in similar circumstances be dismissed upon submission of a physician's certification.

Additionally, the bill allows for a stay of eviction for tenants undergoing cancer treatment, providing them with up to 45 days to address nonpayment issues while ensuring they can renew their leases. It also strengthens employment protections by ensuring that employees taking temporary disability or family leave benefits are reinstated to equivalent positions upon their return. The legislation emphasizes the importance of compassionate care and support for cancer patients, ensuring they are not burdened by financial or housing instability during their treatment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43:21-55.2