New Jersey Assembly Bill A4805

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/20/22
• Refer: 10/20/22
• Refer: 3/20/23

Caption

Appropriates $3 million to DOH to build and operate emergency management and storage center at Hunterdon Medical Center.

Impact

The funding outlined in A4805 is intended to facilitate the establishment of a 10,000 to 20,000 square foot building that will function primarily as a central location for storing emergency supplies, management operations, and potential deployment of resources during crises. It will hold critical medical equipment and supplies such as beds, ventilators, and protective gear when not actively responding to emergencies. The bill's proponents argue that the center is crucial for a region lacking immediate access to large-scale medical facilities, enhancing both local and state emergency response capacities.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4805 proposes the appropriation of $3 million to the Department of Health (DOH) for the construction and operation of an emergency management and storage center at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Flemington, New Jersey. This facility is designed to enhance the region's ability to respond to various emergencies, including natural disasters, mass casualty events, and other incidents requiring immediate medical support. The bill aims to address gaps in emergency preparedness and provide a resource hub for coordinated responses to such situations.

Contention

Supporters of A4805 highlight the need for such a facility in wake of recent crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and Tropical Storm Ida, which exposed vulnerabilities in the existing emergency response framework. However, potential concerns could arise regarding the allocation of funds and the effectiveness of the proposed facility, especially given varying opinions on state investment in healthcare infrastructure. Community stakeholders may seek assurances that the facility will be well-maintained and effectively utilized for its intended purposes, raising discussions about accountability and evaluating the successes of such emergency management initiatives.