Bill > A3016

This bill allows operators of mental health and suicide crisis resources centers or 9-8-8 crisis hotline centers to conduct follow-up communication with minors aged 16 and older who have been identified as high-risk for suicide, without requiring parental consent. The legislation recognizes that suicide is the second leading cause of death among adolescents in New Jersey and aims to provide continued support during moments of acute vulnerability. Specifically, the bill permits follow-up communication through calls, texts, or chat messages from trained operators, with the understanding that these interactions are brief, supportive communications intended solely for suicide prevention and do not constitute formal behavioral health treatment, diagnosis, or clinical care. The bill highlights that current law allows minors 16 and older to consent to certain behavioral health services but did not explicitly permit follow-up communication from suicide prevention hotlines. By enabling these follow-up communications, the legislation seeks to provide additional support and potentially life-saving intervention for youth experiencing mental health crises, while maintaining the communication's confidentiality and focusing on immediate support and prevention.

Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A3016