The bill mandates the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH), in collaboration with the State Office of Emergency Management, to revise its Pandemic Influenza Plan to better prepare for long-term and large-scale pandemic influenzas. The revisions will include expanding the scope of emergencies covered, aligning with federal public health preparedness standards, detailing the roles and responsibilities of state agencies during a pandemic, coordinating with local health departments, establishing crisis care standards, and addressing health equity gaps identified during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, the DOH is required to solicit input from the Governor's Office, local health departments, and other public health stakeholders during the revision process. The updated plan will undergo regular reviews and updates as necessary and will serve as a framework for designing emergency response training exercises related to pandemic influenzas. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.