This bill mandates that health care professionals who screen for, diagnose, or provide therapeutic services to patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) must confidentially report all known cases of the disease to the New Jersey Department of Health. The reporting process will adhere to federal and state privacy laws, ensuring that any disclosed information does not reveal confidential or personal identifying details of patients or health care professionals. Additionally, the Commissioner of Health is authorized to establish data sharing agreements with researchers and ALS registries for research purposes, provided that such agreements maintain strict privacy and security protections.

Furthermore, within 12 months of the bill's effective date, the Commissioner of Health is required to create and publish educational materials on the department's website. These materials will include information on how to participate in the National Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Registry, eligibility requirements for participation, and contact details for the registry and related research entities. The bill aims to enhance the understanding and tracking of ALS cases while safeguarding patient confidentiality.