This bill introduces comprehensive regulations for behavioral assistance services and intensive in-community mental health rehabilitation services in New Jersey, focusing on the employment of staff who work directly with children, youth, or young adults. It requires all such staff to undergo a fingerprint-based criminal history record background check to obtain or maintain Medicaid provider approval. Specific disqualifications for employment are outlined, including refusal to consent to the background check, false statements, registration on sex offender lists, and convictions for serious offenses like child abuse and drug-related crimes. Additionally, staff must have valid driver's licenses if their roles involve transporting children and must meet established educational and training standards.

The bill also allows individuals with disqualifying convictions to challenge the accuracy of their criminal history records, potentially enabling employment if they can demonstrate rehabilitation to the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS). Programs are required to notify the DMAHS of any staff member with pending criminal charges and are granted immunity from liability when acting on disqualifications based on criminal convictions, provided they have received proper notice. Furthermore, programs must maintain documentation of employee qualifications and certify compliance with these regulations annually, with the DMAHS conducting periodic reviews and imposing civil penalties for false certifications.