New Jersey considers coverage mandate

If a new proposal is adopted, New Jersey would be the fourth state to enact mandatory coverage. About 1.4 million residents currently are uninsured.

The proposal aims to redistribute federal and state dollars and would begin by enrolling more children in the existing public program for those at 350% of poverty level. A sliding scale state-run plan for individuals is also a focus. New Jersey’s state-run plan is expected to allow individuals to avoid higher premiums of the private market. Opponents are concerned about unsustainable costs and crowd out.

The state’s budget deadline is July 1.