This bill amends existing New Jersey law to allow operators of the New Jersey Suicide Hopeline to make follow-up calls to minors aged 16 and older who are identified as being at high risk of suicide, without needing parental consent. The legislation stipulates that when these minors call the hotline for counseling and support, they can consent to receive a follow-up call from the operator who initially responded to their call. This consent is considered valid and binding, as if the minor had reached the age of majority, and it is treated as confidential information between the minor and the operator.

Additionally, the bill modifies the current law to ensure that minors do not require consent from any other person, including parents or guardians, to receive such follow-up calls. The confidentiality of the interaction is emphasized, meaning that neither the minor nor the operator is obligated to report the call to the minor's parents if it was made with voluntary consent. This legislative change aims to enhance support for at-risk youth and improve suicide prevention efforts in New Jersey by facilitating ongoing communication between minors and mental health resources.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9:17A-4