This bill aims to make permanent certain provisions of P.L.2023, c.139, which governs the involuntary commitment of individuals in New Jersey. It stipulates that a general hospital or emergency department may not detain a person for more than 72 hours following the execution of a screening certificate unless a temporary court order is obtained for an additional 72 hours. The hospital must demonstrate that it has exhausted all reasonable efforts to place the individual in a more appropriate facility and that there is a substantial likelihood of danger due to mental illness, as certified by two psychiatrists. The Office of the Public Defender is required to be notified and appointed as counsel for the patient during this process.

Additionally, the bill mandates that each general hospital and emergency department submit quarterly reports to the Department of Human Services, detailing the number of applications for temporary court orders, the outcomes of those applications, and other relevant data regarding individuals detained beyond the 72-hour limit. This information must be de-identified and made publicly available on the department's website. The bill also includes provisions for the Commissioner of Health to grant temporary licenses for psychiatric beds in hospitals, ensuring that the necessary resources are available for involuntary commitments.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4-27.9