The Cancer Patient Care and Compassion Act aims to enhance 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 involved in the State Health Benefits Program and Medicaid, provide comprehensive coverage for parenteral treatment, survivorship care plans, and any additional services deemed necessary by regulatory authorities, without imposing any cost-sharing requirements. Furthermore, the bill prohibits residential mortgage lenders from initiating foreclosure actions against debtors undergoing cancer treatment and requires that any collection proceedings against such individuals be halted upon submission of a physician's certification of their treatment status.

Additionally, the bill allows tenants undergoing cancer treatment to request a stay of eviction for up to 45 days, provided they submit a confidential certification from their physician. It also reinforces the right to reinstatement to equivalent employment for employees taking temporary disability or family leave, ensuring that they are not discriminated against for utilizing these benefits. Employees eligible for both earned sick leave and temporary disability benefits can choose which to use, but cannot receive more than one type of paid leave simultaneously. Overall, the act seeks to provide a supportive framework for cancer patients navigating healthcare, housing, and employment challenges.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43:21-55.2