6. If the commissioner determines that the plan submitted pursuant to section 5 of P.L.1990, c.73 (C. 30:4-78.1) is appropriate, the commissioner shall enter into negotiations with the governing body of the county to provide for the State assumption of the management and operation of the psychiatric facility, in which case the State shall operate and maintain the psychiatric facility, provided that the funding ratios shall not change.

Any agreement for the assumption shall include, but not be limited to, such matters as personnel salaries, benefits, tenure or other rights; debt obligations of the facility; existing vendor contracts; lease, purchase or other arrangements for the State’s operation of the facility; purchase of services from the county; capital improvements; staffing arrangements; and insurance payments and receivables, including Medicare and Medicaid payments. When negotiating an agreement the Commissioner of Human Services shall consult with the State Civil Service Commission concerning personnel salaries, benefits, tenure or other rights. If the commissioner and the governing body of the county agree to the State assumption of the management and operation of a county psychiatric facility, any changes in salaries, benefits, tenure or other rights of employees will recognize the rights and responsibilities under appropriate collective bargaining agreements.

L.1990, c.73, s.6; amended 2008, c.29, s.89.