Healthcare

This bill shifts $45 million in state funding for opioid care from the Opioid Recovery and Remediation Fund to the General Fund for the 2026 fiscal year. The funds must be distributed to four specific hospitals - $10 million to Hackensack, $15 million to RWJ Barnabas, $15 million to Cooper, and $5 million to Atlantic Health - to provide opioid-related treatment. Each hospital must submit quarterly reports detailing fund usage, patient outcomes, and remaining balances until all funds are expended.

S 2977 requires chain restaurants with 20 or more locations in New Jersey to meet specific nutritional standards for children's meals (sold as a single-price combo for kids). The bill mandates that these meals contain no more than 550 calories, 700mg sodium, 15g added sugar, and 0g trans fat, while including at least ½ cup of fresh fruits/vegetables and healthier beverage options like water or milk (not sugary drinks). Restaurants must clearly display the nutritional content of compliant meals on menus or signage. Violations can result in fines up to $1,000 per offense, enforced by the Department of Health.