The Peer Recovery Specialist Committee Act establishes a regulatory framework for peer recovery specialists in New Jersey. It creates the Peer Recovery Specialist Committee, consisting of five members, including one public member and four individuals with at least five years of active engagement in peer recovery. The committee is responsible for certifying peer recovery specialists, which requires applicants to meet specific qualifications, including educational requirements, work experience, and completion of training. The committee will also oversee the ethical standards and conduct of certified specialists, ensuring they do not engage in conflicts of interest or misrepresent their qualifications.
Additionally, the bill outlines the powers and duties of the committee, including the ability to investigate violations, conduct hearings, and recommend necessary rules and regulations. It specifies that no individual may provide services as a peer recovery specialist without certification and delineates exemptions for certain professionals and activities. The act aims to ensure that peer recovery specialists are adequately trained and qualified to support individuals dealing with substance use disorders and mental health issues, thereby enhancing the quality of care provided in this field.