Establishes "2020 New Jersey Burial Assistance Program;" appropriates $20 million.
Summary
Assembly Bill A3269, titled the '2020 New Jersey Burial Assistance Program,' is designed to aid individuals facing burial costs connected to deaths attributed to COVID-19. The bill seeks to allocate $20 million to facilitate this support, alleviating the financial burden on families who are coping with loss during a tragic time. The Department of Human Services would be responsible for managing the program, with the commissioner tasked to set the maximum assistance per applicant and create a distribution formula based on need and income.
To qualify for the assistance, applicants must be New Jersey residents whose loved ones died due to COVID-19. They must present several documents, including an official death certificate, itemized funeral bills, and proof of income and residency. The intent behind establishing such a program arises from the significant economic strain many families have faced due to the public health crisis, particularly those in lower-income brackets who might struggle to cover unexpected funeral expenses.
The bill establishes clear eligibility criteria, ensuring that assistance is directed towards those most affected by these circumstances. It specifies the role of the Commissioner of Human Services in administering the program in accordance with applicable regulations. The assistance can be drawn first from federal funds designated for emergency relief, with any necessary additional funding provided by the state's General Fund.
The proposed program is intended to operate immediately upon enactment, with a stipulated duration of one year following the termination of the public health emergency declared by the Governor. This time frame aligns with the approach of providing timely support during the ongoing crisis, while also laying the groundwork for potential long-term assistance depending on the evolving situation and available funding.
Increases Work First New Jersey Child Care appropriation by $28 million in FY2026 annual appropriations act to ensure full funding of child care subsidy program.