This bill mandates the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH) to create a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing the state's public health system within 18 months of the bill's effective date. The plan must include a summary of current policies and propose new initiatives to strengthen public health infrastructure, develop a skilled workforce, promote health equity, and improve public health messaging. Additionally, it should outline clear objectives, actionable steps, and timelines for each recommendation, while identifying the responsible agencies or entities for implementation.

The plan must also address various areas, including increasing funding for healthcare access and culturally specific health programs, building a diverse healthcare workforce, fostering educational collaborations, and improving public health messaging strategies. Input from local health departments, healthcare providers, community organizations, and academic institutions is required in the development of this plan. The act will take effect immediately and will expire upon the submission of the required plan.