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Bill

A 3691

Increases personal needs allowance to $100 for low-income persons residing in certain facilities.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Danielsen and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey bill increases monthly personal needs allowance to $100 for low-income residents in select care facilities, enhancing discretionary spending for vulnerable institutional populations.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Aging and Human Services Committee
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Bill Summary · A 3691

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 3691 increases the personal needs allowance (PNA) for low-income residents in certain facilities from its current level to $100. The personal needs allowance is money provided to residents in congregate care settings (such as nursing homes, group homes, or state institutions) for personal items and discretionary spending. This bill specifically targets residents with limited financial resources.

Why is this important

Low-income residents in institutional care settings often have minimal discretionary income for personal hygiene items, clothing, entertainment, or other daily needs beyond basic care. Increasing the PNA directly affects dignity, autonomy, and quality of life for vulnerable populations. The policy also has budget implications for the state, facilities, and potentially Medicaid programs that may fund or supplement these allowances.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: Unclear whether the state, facilities, or Medicaid will absorb the increased cost and whether there is dedicated funding or if this creates budget pressure elsewhere
  • Scope limitations: The bill specifies "certain facilities" rather than all facilities, raising questions about which populations benefit and whether this creates inequitable treatment
  • Adequacy debate: Whether $100 is sufficient for actual personal needs or whether further increases will be needed, and how this compares to inflation and actual costs of goods

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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