This bill establishes the Office of Resilience within the Department of Children and Families (DCF) in New Jersey, aimed at addressing the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on children's development and well-being. The office will be directed by an executive director who reports to the Commissioner of Children and Families. Its primary responsibilities include coordinating statewide initiatives to raise awareness of ACEs, providing technical assistance to non-governmental organizations, and promoting trauma-informed and health-centered services for young people. The bill defines ACEs as traumatic experiences such as abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction, and outlines the concept of trauma-informed care (TIC) as a strength-based approach that emphasizes safety and empowerment for trauma survivors.

The Office of Resilience will focus on developing and sharing strategies to mitigate the effects of ACEs, collaborating with early childhood organizations to create a multi-generational support system, and launching public awareness campaigns about ACEs and TIC. Additionally, the office is tasked with creating research-based tools to foster resilience and positive childhood experiences, as well as providing periodic reports to the Governor and an annual report to the Legislature on its activities. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon enactment.