This bill establishes the oversight and qualifications for peer recovery specialists in New Jersey, defining them as individuals who provide services based on their lived experience with substance use disorder or mental health issues. The Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs is tasked with determining certification standards, which include passing a criminal history background check, evaluating applicants' qualifications, conducting hearings, setting certification fees, and addressing other necessary oversight items. The bill also outlines specific prohibitions for certified peer recovery specialists, such as engaging in conflicting professional relationships, exploiting peer relationships for personal gain, and accepting individuals with whom they have personal relationships as peers for recovery services.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that it does not restrict certain activities, including self-help and sponsorship through support groups, the services of designated employees or agents of private employers, clergy performing ministerial duties, and the activities of students or interns in counseling programs. It ensures that individuals can provide peer recovery services within the scope of their professional training without needing certification under this act, as long as they do not misrepresent themselves as certified peer recovery specialists. The act will take effect on the first day of the 13th month following its enactment.