New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S257

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Establishes "Opioid Prevention and Rehabilitation Program Fund" and tax on opioid drugs.

Impact

The introduction of S257 could significantly impact state laws regarding drug taxation and public health funding. It proposes a new financial mechanism that integrates a tax structure specifically targeting opioid distributors, thereby creating a fund designated for rehabilitation efforts. The ongoing appropriations from this fund will be crucial in ensuring that treatment programs remain adequately resources. This has the potential to enhance the state's healthcare response to substance use disorders, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Summary

Senate Bill S257 aims to tackle the opioid crisis in New Jersey by establishing the 'Opioid Prevention and Rehabilitation Program Fund.' This initiative is funded through a tax imposed on opioid drugs, specifically at a rate of one cent per milligram of active opioid ingredient. The revenue generated from this tax will be allocated to support programs that assist individuals with substance use disorders who are uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in Medicaid. The bill reflects a focused strategy to address the opioid epidemic by funneling resources into treatment and prevention.

Contention

While the bill aims to provide substantial public health benefits, it may also lead to debate surrounding the enforcement of the tax and the broader implications for pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers. Critics may express concern over the effectiveness of the tax in generating desired funding levels without imposing undue burdens on drug availability. Additionally, there may be discussions on the oversight and allocation of funds to ensure that they are used effectively for rehabilitation and prevention programs. Balancing funding for treatment while managing the interests of pharmaceutical stakeholders may create a contentious legislative environment.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ S1488

Establishes "Opioid Prevention and Rehabilitation Program Fund" and tax on opioid drugs.

NJ AB2486

Opioid Prevention and Rehabilitation Act.

NJ AB1512

Opioid Addiction Prevention and Rehabilitation Act.

NJ AB1468

Opioid Prevention and Rehabilitation Act.

NJ S783

Establishes Opioid Recovery and Remediation Fund; establishes requirements for proceeds from opioid settlements to support substance use disorder prevention and treatment programs.

NJ A1488

Establishes Opioid Recovery and Remediation Fund; establishes requirements for proceeds from opioid settlements to support substance use disorder prevention and treatment programs.

NJ SB00005

An Act Establishing A Surcharge On The Manufacture And Distribution Of Opioids And Funding For Opioid Abuse Prevention And Treatment.

NJ SB01130

An Act Implementing A Tax On Controlled Substances And Funding Regional Opioid Abuse Prevention And Treatment Programs.

NJ S2017

Establishes Statewide Opioid Antidote Coordinator position; appropriates funds.

NJ A1861

Establishes Statewide Opioid Antidote Coordinator position; appropriates funds.

Similar Bills

CA AB1468

Opioid Prevention and Rehabilitation Act.

CA AB2486

Opioid Prevention and Rehabilitation Act.

CA AB1512

Opioid Addiction Prevention and Rehabilitation Act.

NJ S1488

Establishes "Opioid Prevention and Rehabilitation Program Fund" and tax on opioid drugs.

VA SB885

Alternative beer distribution program; Va. Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority to study.

OH SB152

Allow wild animal rehab facility to get euthanasia drug permit

CA SB1361

Prescription drugs: cost sharing: pharmacy benefit managers.

CA SB1346

Surplus medication collection and distribution.