This bill mandates the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) to enhance home and community-based services under the Medicaid program. The Commissioner of Human Services is tasked with specific goals, including aiming to place 80% of Medicaid participants eligible for nursing home care into home and community-based services by 2027, with 60% of long-term services funding allocated to these services. By 2029, the goal is to allocate 70% of the funding to home and community-based services. Additionally, the Commissioner must establish a five-year strategic plan to reduce institutionalization in state developmental centers and implement measures to eliminate institutional bias in state policy.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Commissioner to develop an equitable plan for health care providers with stakeholder input, manage Medicaid payment methods to ensure caregivers receive a living wage, and collaborate with the Department of Community Affairs to increase affordable supportive housing. The Commissioner is also responsible for submitting an annual report to the Governor and Legislature on the progress of these initiatives. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.