Bill > S3750

This bill enhances the enforcement authority of the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) over developmental disability service providers by establishing a comprehensive system of penalties and oversight. The bill defines key terms like "administrative neglect" and "major injury" and creates a new "Residential Facility Quality of Care Improvement Fund" to collect revenues from fines. Providers can now be penalized up to $10,000 for various infractions, such as operating without proper licensing, failing to conduct criminal background checks, not removing employees on abuse registries, and not conducting thorough internal investigations of abuse or neglect allegations. The bill also introduces a more detailed reporting requirement for internal investigations, mandating that reports include interviews, evidence summaries, findings, and guardian notifications. Furthermore, the DHS can assign a Quality Management Team to chronically non-compliant providers and has the authority to terminate a provider's authorization for repeated violations. The penalties aim to improve the quality of care and safety for individuals with developmental disabilities by creating stronger accountability mechanisms for service providers. The bill will take effect six months after enactment, allowing providers and the department time to prepare for the new requirements.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3750