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Bill > SJR157
NJ SJR157
NJ SJR157Clarifies exception to hearsay rule concerning medical diagnosis or treatment for purposes of providing, continuing, or ending mental health services.
summary
Introduced
03/03/2025
03/03/2025
In Committee
03/03/2025
03/03/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This joint resolution would clarify an exception to the hearsay rule, Rule 803 of the Rules of Evidence, concerning a person's medical diagnosis or treatment for purposes of providing, continuing, or ending mental health services. The use of hearsay testimony about a person's medical history or present condition may be a vital source in making such treatment decisions. In accordance with the procedure set forth in "The Evidence Act, 1960," P.L.1960, c.52 (C.2A:84A-1 et al.), the Legislature may initiate a rule change by passage of a joint resolution, which if signed by the Governor will be presented to the Supreme Court for consideration of adoption. As per the statutory procedure and further specified in this joint resolution, if the rule change is adopted by the Supreme Court it would take effect on a date set forth in the order of adoption.
AI Summary
This joint resolution clarifies an exception to the hearsay rule in Rule 803 of the Rules of Evidence, specifically regarding medical diagnosis or treatment statements, with a particular focus on mental health services. The resolution aims to expand the existing hearsay exception by explicitly including statements related to the provision, continuation, or cessation of mental health services. By amending the rule, the resolution allows hearsay testimony about a person's medical history or condition to be more readily admitted as evidence when making decisions about mental health treatment. The change recognizes that such testimony can be a vital source of information in determining appropriate mental health care. The resolution follows a specific procedural mechanism under New Jersey law that allows the Legislature to propose rule changes to the Supreme Court, which can then adopt the amendment through an official order. If adopted by the Supreme Court, the new rule would take effect on the date specified in the court's adoption order, potentially making it easier for medical professionals, legal representatives, and courts to consider a broader range of testimony when making critical decisions about mental health services.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee (on 03/03/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/SJR157 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/SJR/157_I1.HTM |
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