The proposed bill, known as the Craig Tiger Act, mandates that each county in New Jersey establish a crisis intervention services program specifically for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and sheriff's officers. This program is designed to provide essential post-traumatic debriefing and counseling services for individuals who have experienced incidents that may lead to psychological distress. The bill expands eligibility for these services to include not only county and municipal law enforcement personnel but also state law enforcement officers, volunteer firefighters, and 9-1-1 first responder dispatchers. Additionally, it outlines the definition of a "critical incident" to encompass various traumatic experiences, such as witnessing death or serious injury, involvement in dangerous criminal investigations, and rescue situations.

The legislation also includes provisions to protect the rights of officers and firefighters seeking counseling. Employers are prohibited from requiring these individuals to use accrued leave when attending counseling sessions, and if a provider determines that an officer or firefighter is unfit for duty, the employer must ensure that they do not lose pay or benefits for up to 30 days under certain conditions. The program will offer up to 12 counseling sessions, with the possibility of an additional 24 sessions if deemed necessary. Furthermore, the bill establishes a county crisis intervention services advisory council to oversee the program and mandates annual data reporting to the Department of Community Affairs, ensuring transparency and accountability. The state will also reimburse counties for the costs incurred in establishing these programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40A:14-195, 40A:14-196, 40A:14-197, 40A:14-198