New Jersey Senate Bill S1748

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22

Caption

Provides dedicated funding for New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research from Workforce Development Partnership Fund.

Impact

The implementation of S1748 is poised to reinforce the funding stability for the Commission on Cancer Research, which has historically faced diversion of allocated funds from cigarette tax revenues to other budget areas in recent years. The utilization of the Workforce Development Partnership Fund as a consistent financial resource is intended to prevent such budgetary issues from affecting cancer research grants, thus ensuring ongoing critical research initiatives and potentially benefiting public health outcomes in New Jersey.

Summary

S1748, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, proposes to provide a dedicated funding source for the New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research through reallocating funds from the Workforce Development Partnership Fund. The bill's primary objective is to ensure sustained financial support for significant and original cancer research in New Jersey, which addresses the causes, prevention, treatment, and palliation of cancer. Established in 1983, the Commission has facilitated over 500 cancer research projects that have contributed to the advancement of cancer care and treatment in the state.

Contention

Critics may argue against the reallocation of the Workforce Development Partnership Fund, fearing it could detract from employment and training programs meant for displaced and disadvantaged workers. However, supporters of the bill highlight the essential nature of funding cancer research, especially in light of the significant health challenges posed by cancer. The controlled appropriation of funds aims to safeguard other dedicated revenue sources, such as those from the sales of 'Conquer Cancer' license plates and other cancer research funds, providing reassurance regarding the bill's alignment with broader health and social services.