The bill establishes the Alternative Responses to Reduce Instances of Violence and Escalation (ARRIVE) Together Program within the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety. Its primary aim is to create a coordinated response for individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises when interacting with law enforcement. The Attorney General is tasked with developing guidelines for mental health service providers to contract with law enforcement agencies, ensuring that mental health services are available 24/7. Participating law enforcement agencies, including the Division of State Police and various county and municipal police departments, must designate crisis response support coordinators to implement these guidelines.
Additionally, the bill emphasizes the confidentiality of personal identifying information related to individuals receiving assistance through the ARRIVE Together Program. This information cannot be disclosed without the individual's consent, except as required by law or court order. The bill also provides legal protections for licensed mental health service providers involved in crisis response, shielding them from civil liability for actions taken in good faith during emergencies. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the support available for individuals in crisis while ensuring their privacy and the accountability of responding agencies.