Bill > A1148

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for providing temporary housing for individuals in crisis, specifically targeting infants, children, young parents under 21, and pregnant women under 21 who are experiencing challenging life circumstances such as homelessness, substance abuse, domestic violence, or lack of stable guardianship. The legislation requires that any agency facilitating such temporary placements must be an approved agency that contracts with the Department of Children and Families and conducts thorough background checks on volunteers and adult household members. These checks include reviewing the child abuse registry and obtaining state and federal criminal history records through fingerprint submissions. The approved agency must perform a detailed home study to assess the suitability of the volunteer's home, provide weekly oversight of the placement, assist the person in crisis with stabilizing their life, and maintain confidential records of their assessments. Volunteers must be at least 21 years old and provide housing without compensation, and the temporary placement is limited to a maximum of 12 months. The bill aims to create a structured, safe, and supportive environment for vulnerable individuals during critical periods of their lives by ensuring rigorous screening and ongoing support from approved agencies.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A1148