Local Health Departments have been the unsung heroes of the COVID-19 response and vaccination efforts. The work over the last 2 1/2 years is in addition to the core functions that are continued to be performed to keep New Jersey communities safe and healthy.

LHDs continue to work hard to support their communities, with no dedicated, flexible State based funding. NJ statute dictates that Public Health Priority Funding (PHPF) should be included in the annual state budget. However, there has not been any allocation of these funds since 2010. Senator Gopal and Senator Ruiz are co-sponsoring legislation (S2413) that would include PHPF funding in this year's state budget and protect the allocation in the future.

The need for more sustainable, flexible funding is well established. We urge you to take a few moments of your time to take action here - Supporting Local Public Health. This link will allow you to contact the Senate Health Committee representatives to showcase your support for S2413, which proposes the addition of $10M in PHPF funding to this year's budget.

NJEHA & NJACCHO