New Jersey Assembly Bill A5199

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/25
• Refer: 1/16/25
• Refer: 6/19/25
• Report Pass: 6/26/25

Caption

Requires resident and fellow physicians employed by Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, who are eligible for coverage in SHBP, to be eligible to enroll and receive health insurance on first day of employment.

Impact

If passed, A5199 will significantly alter the current enrollment procedures for healthcare coverage under the SHBP for new and existing employees at Rutgers and University Hospital. This effective immediate coverage would not only support the healthcare workforce at Rutgers but could also serve as a model for similar provisions in other public institutions. The bill acknowledges the critical need for timely access to healthcare services for medical professionals who often face unique health risks due to their occupations.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5199 proposes that resident and fellow physicians employed by Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, be granted eligibility to enroll in the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) starting from their first day of employment. This legislation aims to address the delayed access to healthcare coverage, which can lead to significant health risks and financial burdens during emergencies, as experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously, an executive order allowed for immediate enrollment, but this was rescinded in 2021 when the public health emergency was deemed over.

Contention

While the bill seems to have broad support for its aims of improving healthcare access for medical personnel, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications on the state's budget and the SHBP itself, particularly if adoption leads to a swell in enrollment rates. Proponents argue that the health and productivity of resident physicians are paramount, while critics might express apprehension about long-term sustainability and funding of the health benefits program.