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, specifically if they are identified as being at high risk of committing suicide. The bill stipulates 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.

The legislation also modifies the existing provisions regarding minors' consent for behavioral health care services, reinforcing that minors can consent to temporary outpatient treatment and follow-up calls from the Suicide Hopeline without parental involvement. This change aims to enhance the support available to at-risk youth and aligns with national guidelines that emphasize the importance of follow-up communication in suicide prevention efforts. By facilitating these follow-up calls, the bill seeks to improve mental health outcomes and reduce youth suicide rates in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9:17A-4