This bill establishes the New Jersey First Responder and Veteran Lung Cancer Screening Awareness and Referral Program within the Department of Health, aimed at increasing awareness and access to lung cancer screening for first responders and veterans who are at heightened risk due to occupational or service-related exposures. The program will be administered by the Commissioner of Health in consultation with the Adjutant General of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and the Attorney General. It will focus on coordinating education, outreach, and referral efforts to inform these populations about lung cancer risk factors, eligibility for low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening, and the benefits of early detection.

The Department of Health is tasked with developing and distributing educational materials to various organizations, including fire departments, law enforcement agencies, veteran service organizations, and health care entities serving high-risk populations. Additionally, the department will maintain a publicly accessible directory of health care facilities offering LDCT screening and establish voluntary referral protocols for health care providers and organizations. The program will not impose additional insurance requirements but will emphasize education and navigation of existing coverage pathways. Data collection and analysis regarding program implementation and outcomes will be conducted, ensuring that no personally identifiable health information is disclosed.