Raymond J Castro


Ray Castro was formerly the Director of Health Policy for NJPP. In this role, he worked to improve the health outcomes of New Jerseyans by producing reports, testifying in legislative hearings and working with advocates, legislators and their staff, and other key stakeholders to change policy and boost families in need. Ray’s research interests include: the Affordable Care Act, universal health coverage, NJ FamilyCare, health care transformation, poverty, the social safety net, public assistance and working family tax credits. Before joining NJPP in August 2006, Ray worked for the New Jersey Department of Human Services for more than 30 years, mainly serving as the Director of the DHS Office of Legislative Services in the Commissioner’s office. He was closely involved with developing federal and state legislation relating to Medicaid, mental health, welfare reform, child protective services, child care and other work support programs, and helped develop the policy and legislative strategy that led to New Jersey’s state Earned Income Tax Credit. He received a BA in psychology from the University of California-Berkeley and holds a master’s in social work degree with a specialization in policy from Rutgers University.

Impact of Threats to Health Care by Congressional District

Impact of threats to health programs, by congressional district.

Congressional Threats to Health Programs Could Harm Millions of New Jerseyans

The number one issue for voters, both Democrats and Republicans, is health care. Here's what's at stake in the midterms.

Trump’s ACA Sabotage: Bad Medicine for New Jersey

Eighteen ways the Trump administration has undermined the Affordable Care Act.

Trump's ACA Sabotage: Bad Medicine for New Jersey

Eighteen ways the Trump administration has undermined the Affordable Care Act.

Newest Trump Sabotage of Obamacare Could Make Health Insurance Unaffordable for Many New Jerseyans

Latest sabotage efforts will lead to higher premiums and more uninsured New Jerseyans.

“American Health Care Act” Would Have Been a Disaster for New Jersey

Looking back on efforts to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act.

New Jersey Takes A Step Toward Restoring Health Care Mandate

Restoring the individual mandate under the Affordable Care Act is essential to keeping insurance affordable.

Passage of 'Out-of-Network' Bill a Historic Step Forward

Legislation provides new protections and transparency for New Jerseyans to avoid surprise billing.

It's Time to Restore Food Assistance for Hundreds of Thousands of New Jerseyans

Here are four reasons why New Jersey should restore “Heat and Eat” benefits.

New Jersey Should Replicate ACA Penalty to Keep Coverage Affordable

This is one of the most cost-effective ways that the state can reduce premiums.