New Jersey Senate Bill S272

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires federal funding to be made available to Governor's Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse to support Alliance to Prevent Alcoholism and Drug Abuse if needed to offset unanticipated decrease in dedicated revenues.

Impact

This bill affects existing state laws by enabling the GCADA to receive federal assistance to maintain its operations and initiatives designed to combat alcoholism and drug abuse. Under current law, the GCADA administers the alliance, which consists of community coalitions that work on educational programs, intervention procedures, and community awareness initiatives aimed at reducing substance abuse. By facilitating federal funds, the bill helps to stabilize and potentially expand the alliance’s efforts during financially challenging times.

Summary

Bill S272 aims to ensure the continued funding of the Governor's Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (GCADA) by requiring federal funds to be made available to support the Alliance to Prevent Alcoholism and Drug Abuse during a period of anticipated decreases in dedicated state revenues. This legislation is particularly focused on the fiscal years of 2022 and 2023, amid the ongoing challenges presented by public health and economic impacts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill allows the Governor to access federal funding under various relief acts if state revenues fall short.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S272 may arise from budgetary concerns, as legislators may debate the extent of reliance on federal funding to support state initiatives. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the efficacy of the alliance’s programs and whether they adequately meet the needs of communities affected by substance abuse. While proponents support the bill for its potential to bolster important public health efforts, critics may argue about the sustainability of funding and the management of such resources over time.