This bill mandates that eligible resident and fellow physicians employed by Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, including University Hospital, and their dependents, be allowed to enroll in the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) on the first day of their employment. This provision applies to new hires starting on or after the effective date of the act, as well as to current employees who will be eligible to enroll immediately upon the act's effective date.

The legislation aims to address the critical issue of delays in health care coverage, which can lead to dangerous situations and significant financial burdens during emergencies. The bill responds to previous changes in enrollment policies that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically the transition from immediate enrollment allowed under Executive Order 172 to the restrictions imposed by Executive Order 244. By ensuring immediate access to health care coverage, the bill seeks to protect the health and well-being of resident and fellow physicians and their families.