This bill aims to enhance the State of New Jersey's access to public health emergency supplies and services by establishing a stockpile of personal protective equipment (PPE). The Director of the Division of Purchase and Property, in consultation with the State Office of Emergency Management (OEM), is tasked with procuring PPE and maintaining the stockpile to meet the state's needs during a public health emergency. The bill stipulates that during such emergencies, the OEM will provide PPE to state entities, public schools, state hospitals, and nursing homes at no cost, while allowing other public and private entities to purchase remaining supplies at market price. The OEM, in collaboration with the Department of Health, will prioritize access to the stockpile for various entities.
Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of an online portal for donations of emergency supplies and outlines a streamlined procurement process for critical supplies during public health emergencies. The Director of OEM is required to designate a primary contact for procurement, centralize the procurement process, and develop a plan to enhance the state's procurement capacity. The bill also emphasizes the need for a standard operating plan for procurement during emergencies and encourages collaboration between the OEM and the Division of Purchase and Property. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve the state's preparedness and response capabilities in public health emergencies.