Bill > S4337

This bill establishes a legal mechanism for individuals aged 18 or older, emancipated minors, or their authorized representatives to create a voluntary nonopioid directive, which is a document stating that opioid medications should not be administered or prescribed to them. The Department of Health will develop a standardized form for these directives, which will be published online, and the department is also required to publicize information about these directives through various means like social media. The directive can be revoked at any time orally or in writing, and when submitted to a healthcare professional or facility, it must be entered into the patient's electronic file in an accessible manner. The bill provides legal protections for healthcare professionals and facilities, ensuring they cannot face disciplinary action or civil/criminal liability for actions taken in good faith related to the directive, such as not administering opioids or inadvertently administering them. Importantly, the bill does not prevent opioids from being prescribed or administered if deemed medically necessary. The Commissioner of Health will be responsible for developing specific rules and regulations to implement the act, which will take effect immediately upon passage.

Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4337