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Bill > SJR67
NJ SJR67
NJ SJR67Clarifies exception to hearsay rule concerning medical diagnosis or treatment for purposes of providing, continuing, or ending mental health services.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 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 proposes an amendment to Rule 803 of the Rules of Evidence, which deals with exceptions to the hearsay rule (meaning statements that would normally be excluded as unreliable because they are not made directly in court). Specifically, it seeks to clarify that statements made in good faith for the purpose of obtaining or continuing mental health services, which describe medical history, symptoms, or their causes, can be admitted as evidence even if they are considered hearsay. This clarification is intended to ensure that such statements, which are crucial for making informed decisions about mental health treatment, are not unfairly excluded from legal proceedings. The resolution outlines a specific legislative process, as established by "The Evidence Act, 1960," allowing the Legislature to initiate rule changes that, if signed by the Governor, are then presented to the Supreme Court for consideration and potential adoption.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee (on 01/13/2026)
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/2026/SJR67 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/SJR/67_I1.HTM |
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