Bill > A3973

This bill revises New Jersey law concerning patient referrals in substance use disorder treatment by making it a third-degree crime for any healthcare provider, facility, organization, clinical laboratory, or recovery residence to give, solicit, offer, or receive payments or kickbacks in exchange for patient referrals to treatment facilities, recovery residences, or clinical laboratories. The law specifies that payments cannot vary based on the number of patient referrals, duration of treatment, or amount of insurance benefits. Violations can result in significant penalties, including a mandatory $50,000 fine and potential restitution. The Office of Licensing in the Department of Health and the Department of Community Affairs are empowered to investigate alleged violations and can suspend or revoke licenses or impose civil penalties up to $20,000 per violation. The bill provides specific definitions for key terms like "clinical laboratory," "health care facility," "health care provider," and "recovery residence," ensuring clarity about which entities are subject to these regulations. The purpose of the bill appears to be preventing exploitative practices in substance use disorder treatment referrals that could potentially prioritize financial gain over patient care and recovery.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A3973