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 and 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 updates the definition of behavioral health care services to include the follow-up calls from the Suicide Hopeline, reinforcing the confidentiality of the interaction. This change is significant as it aligns with the guidelines of the National Suicide Prevention Helpline, which previously restricted follow-up calls to minors without parental consent. By facilitating these follow-up communications, the bill aims to enhance support for at-risk youth and contribute to suicide prevention efforts in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9:17A-4