This bill establishes a Statewide tele-psychiatry program within the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS), aimed at providing timely psychiatric assessments and initiating treatment for patients experiencing mental health or substance abuse crises. The program will utilize consulting providers who deliver care via two-way real-time interactive audio or video technology. DHS is required to contract with a partner organization to facilitate the program's administration, which must be implemented Statewide within three years of the bill's enactment. The bill outlines various responsibilities for DHS, including ongoing monitoring of the program, conducting site visits, and addressing barriers faced by participating sites.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $4 million from the General Fund to support the program's implementation. It mandates the Commissioner of Human Services to submit annual reports detailing participation metrics, psychiatric assessments conducted, and involuntary commitments recommended, among other relevant information. The bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration with critical access and small rural hospitals, as well as the need for regulations to ensure patient safety and establish payment rates for tele-psychiatry services. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance access to mental health care through innovative telehealth solutions.