This bill establishes 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.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that it does not restrict individuals from providing self-help or uncompensated counseling services, nor does it apply to designated employees of private employers involved in employee counseling evaluations, clergy performing ministerial duties, students or interns in counseling programs, or licensed professionals providing services within their scope of practice. The Director is also authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to implement the provisions of the act, which will take effect 13 months after its enactment.