This bill amends existing New Jersey law to allow operators of the New Jersey Suicide Hopeline to place follow-up calls to minors aged 16 years or older who have contacted the hotline for counseling and support, particularly if they are identified as being at high risk of committing suicide. The bill specifies that these minors can consent to receive such follow-up calls without needing parental consent or authorization, and this consent is considered valid and binding as if the minor were an adult. Additionally, the bill ensures that the consent for these follow-up calls is treated as confidential information, meaning neither the minor nor the operator is required to report the call to the minor's parents if it was made voluntarily.

The legislation also amends Section 1 of P.L.1968, c.230 (C.9:17A-4) to clarify that minors can consent to receive follow-up calls from the New Jersey Suicide Hopeline without needing consent from any other person, including parents or guardians. This change is intended to enhance the support provided to at-risk youth and aligns with the guidelines established by the National Suicide Prevention Helpline, which previously restricted such follow-up calls without parental consent. By facilitating these follow-up communications, the bill aims to improve suicide prevention efforts among young people in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9:17A-4