This bill establishes the Health Equity Access and Leadership (HEAL) Fund as a separate non-lapsing account within the existing Health Care Subsidy Fund (HCSF). The HCSF, which is funded through various state taxes, will now allocate a portion of its revenues to support the HEAL Fund, alongside a $25 million appropriation from the General Fund. The HEAL Fund is designed to provide competitive grants to community-based health organizations and service providers that serve underserved or underinsured populations, particularly those who have experienced reduced access to care due to significant funding losses. The bill specifies that grants will be awarded to applicants who have not received federal funding in the 12 months prior to their application.

The Commissioner of Health is tasked with overseeing the distribution of funds from the HEAL Fund, which will include annual allocations equal to at least 0.1 percent of the projected revenue for the HCSF. The bill outlines the criteria for grant eligibility, emphasizing the need for funds to maintain existing services. Additionally, the Commissioner is required to submit an annual report detailing the fund's receipts, expenditures, geographic distribution of services, and outcomes related to healthcare access and equity. This initiative aims to enhance healthcare access for diverse populations across New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2H-18.58