This bill proposes to increase the annual allocation of cigarette and other tobacco products tax revenues to the New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research (NJCCR) from $1 million to $10 million. It establishes a dedicated, non-lapsing Cancer Research Fund within the Department of the Treasury, which will serve as the repository for these funds and any additional funds approved by the Department of Health or the NJCCR. The bill mandates that at least $5 million of the fund be allocated for general cancer research and another $5 million for pediatric cancer research, ensuring a balanced approach to funding various cancer research initiatives.

Additionally, the bill repeals the existing provision that allows for the annual appropriation of funds from a lapsing Cancer Research Fund, replacing it with a non-lapsing, revolving fund. The State Treasurer will oversee the fund, managing disbursements and investments in accordance with state law. This change aims to enhance the NJCCR's capacity to support cancer research, particularly in addressing disparities in access to care among minority and vulnerable communities, while also ensuring that the funds are utilized effectively for approved research projects.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 54:40A-37.1, 52:9U-8