Ann Barone, Plaintiff-Appellant v. Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Assistance and Health…

Summary

The Supreme Court of New Jersey affirmed the Appellate Division, holding that the New Jersey Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled Act's limitation of benefits to disabled persons who receive Social Security Disability Insurance is constitutionally permissible under both the federal and state equal protection clauses because it rationally furthers the legitimate governmental interest of minimizing administrative costs and maximizing program funds. Justice Stein dissented, arguing the classification lacks a rational basis.