Requires Executive Branch departments, agencies, and instrumentalities to identify and assess COVID-19 measures and their viability for future potential emergency scenarios.
Impact
The bill requires that one year after its effective date and annually thereafter, each department submits a report to the Governor and the Legislature. This report must include an assessment of the measures identified, a discussion of their effectiveness, and plans for implementing actions in future emergencies, which will be publicly available via departmental websites. This approach is intended to enhance the readiness of the state to respond efficiently in the event of future public health emergencies.
Summary
Assembly Bill A4595 mandates each department, agency, and instrumentality of the Executive Branch in New Jersey to develop a comprehensive inventory of actions taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill aims to ensure that these entities assess the effectiveness of their COVID-19 measures and evaluate their viability for future emergency scenarios. This process would involve a systematic cataloging of guidelines, policies, waivers, and directives that were implemented during the pandemic.
Contention
A4595 reflects a legislative effort to learn from the recent pandemic experience by institutionalizing a review and reporting process for emergency response measures. Key points of contention may arise around the scope of the measures to be assessed and the potential implications for efficiency and accountability in governmental operations. Stakeholders might debate the adequacy of the proposed reporting mechanisms and whether they sufficiently address the complexities of emergency management.
Requires each principal department in Executive Branch to conduct review of department's COVID-19 preparedness, response, and recovery and make recommendations.
Requires each principal department in Executive Branch to conduct review of department's COVID-19 preparedness, response, and recovery and make recommendations.
An Act Concerning Executive Branch Agency Data Management And Processes, The Transmittal Of Town Property Assessment Information And The Suspension Of Certain Regulatory Requirements.
Abolishes office of lieutenant governor and Dept. of Culture, Recreation and Tourism and transfers powers, duties, and agencies to executive branch departments (OR SEE FISC NOTE EX)
Requests the adoption of enhanced regional transmission planning processes that use a multi-scenario, multi-value framework to ensure long-term national security, grid reliability, and resilience.