This bill mandates that general acute care hospitals in New Jersey, which have received approval from the Department of Health to relocate from an underserved community, must continue to provide essential services at their original location. Specifically, these hospitals are required to maintain the minimum professional departments, inpatient beds, services, facilities, and functions as outlined in existing regulations. Additionally, the services at the original location must be offered under the same license as the relocated hospital.

The bill also defines "underserved community" and establishes criteria for municipalities that qualify under this designation. It empowers the Commissioner of Health to adopt necessary rules and regulations for implementation. Importantly, the provisions of this bill will take effect immediately and will apply retroactively to any hospital relocations approved in the 12 months prior to the effective date, provided they meet the specified requirements.