March 2, 2021

Governor Murphy Delivers Budget Address Governor Murphy delivered his State Fiscal Year 2022 budget address on February 23. The $44.8 billion budget includes no new taxes, fees or fares and will build on the landmark New Jersey Economic Recovery Act signed into law last month. The budget continues the Governor’s commitment to keeping New Jersey as the “state of innovation” with a proposed $3.2 million for the New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology. Click here for BioNJ’s Public Policy Alert on the 2022 Budget Address.

Governor Murphy Signs Marijuana Legalization Bill Governor Murphy signed adult-use cannabis bills into law on February 24. The bills signed into law include A-21 to legalize and regulate cannabis use for adults 21 years of age and older; A-1897, legislation to decriminalize marijuana and hashish possession, and S-3454, legislation clarifying marijuana use and possession penalties for individuals under age 21. Voters had previously approved a ballot initiative in support of legalized marijuana with a January 1 deadline for authorizing legislation. The next step for marijuana legalization is for the Cannabis Regulatory Commission to promulgate the regulations necessary for regulatory oversight as well as cannabis business licensing.

BioNJ Joins CSBA, State Biopharmaceutical Leaders in Opposition to Protected Classes Proposal The waning days of the Trump Administration saw a calendar year 2022 Medicare Part D Payment Modernization Model change that could significantly restrict Patient access to necessary treatments. The change would allow participating Part D plans to restrict formularies for Part D’s “protected classes.” BioNJ President and CEO Debbie Hart joined the Council of State Bioscience Associations including dozens of other state biopharmaceutical associations in urging the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to withdraw this proposed 2022 change. Patients should have access to the treatments they need when they are needed most. Unfortunately, the CY2022 model changes would place unnecessary barriers to Patient access.  Click here for a copy of the letter.

Brooks-LaSure Nominated for CMS Post President Joe Biden has nominated Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to serve as his administration’s first Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator. Brooks-LaSure currently serves as managing director at Manatt and previously was instrumental in Affordable Care Act implementation during the Obama administration. Meanwhile, Senate Committees held confirmation hearings for the nomination of former Congressman and current California Attorney General Xavier Becerra to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Finally, the health policy world awaits word on President Biden’s nominee to lead the all-important U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Stay tuned for additional information on President Biden’s health policy nominees.

House Passes $1.9 Trillion Stimulus Proposal The U.S. House of Representatives has taken the first step in making President Biden’s $1.9 trillion stimulus proposal a reality. In a late-night vote, the $1.9 trillion package passed by a narrow 219-212 vote. The package includes additional direct stimulus payments to millions of Americans, enhanced unemployment benefits and rental and mortgage assistance. The package also includes $350 billion in aid to state and local governments as well as additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Industry Disaster Loan Program. The U.S. Senate will soon consider the package with a mid-March deadline for sending the legislation to President Biden’s desk for approval.

Reminder: March 4 Rare Disease Day in Trenton On March 4, rare disease Patients, families, caregivers and advocates will come together for Rare Disease Day in Trenton. The annual event will be virtual in 2021 and help raise awareness with our policymakers on the impact of rare diseases on Patients and their families. Click here for more information on 2021 Rare Disease Day in Trenton.

We Need Your Help: Support BioNJ Policy and Advocacy Efforts BioNJ is the voice of New Jersey’s life sciences sector in Trenton and Washington. BioNJ's Public Policy Support Series sponsorship opportunities are available for 2021. Sponsorship opportunities help make sure that our message is delivered in both Trenton and Washington, D.C. Help ensure BioNJ continues to deliver our message of improved Patient access and enhanced innovation through a Public Policy Support Series Sponsorship. Click here for more information.

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