This bill amends New Jersey's certificate of need exemption list by adding specific provisions related to maternity services. It introduces exemptions for health care facilities that provide inpatient maternity services, allowing for the addition of intermediate or intensive bassinets and an increase in the level of neonatal care designation without requiring a certificate of need. However, it specifies that any reduction in the number of bassinets or a decrease in the level of neonatal care designation will still require a certificate of need.

The bill aims to streamline the process for health care facilities to expand their maternity services, thereby enhancing the availability of care for mothers and newborns. By exempting certain expansions from the certificate of need requirement, the legislation seeks to facilitate timely improvements in health care services while maintaining oversight for reductions in capacity or care levels. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2H-7