The proposed bill enhances the responsibilities of the Child Advocacy Center-Multidisciplinary Team Advisory Board and establishes a new "Problematic Sexual Behavior Program" with an appropriation of $8.5 million. It introduces an annual progress review program for child advocacy centers and multidisciplinary teams to ensure compliance with accreditation standards from the National Children's Alliance. The bill defines "problematic sexual behavior" and outlines the roles of specialized care coordinators, emphasizing the need for coordinated responses to youth exhibiting such behaviors. Additionally, it mandates the creation of a Problematic Sexual Behavior Subcommittee within the advisory board to oversee the statewide response to these issues and recommend improvements.

Key amendments include replacing the annual compliance certification process with a progress review, increasing the board's membership from 10 to 14 members, and clarifying grant distribution guidelines by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). The bill also introduces the "Child Treatment Assistance Fund" to cover medical and mental health services for affected youth. The Problematic Sexual Behavior Program, administered by the New Jersey Children's Alliance, aims to provide screening, referrals, and training for mental health providers, as well as support for specialized care coordinators. The bill is set to take effect three months after enactment, allowing for anticipatory administrative actions by the Commissioner of Children and Families.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9:6-8.107, 9:6-8.108, 9:6-8.109, 9:6-8.110, 9:6-8.111, 9:6-8.113