This bill mandates that public and nonpublic secondary schools in New Jersey conduct annual written or verbal substance use screenings for all students in grades nine through twelve. The screenings will utilize the Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) program to assess students' risk for substance abuse. If a student screens positive for potential substance misuse, the administering personnel, which may include certified student assistance coordinators, school nurses, or licensed health care professionals, will provide brief counseling and assist with referrals to treatment options if necessary. Parents or guardians must receive prior written notice of the screening and have the option to opt their child out of the process.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the confidentiality of the information collected during screenings, stating that any disclosures made by students will remain confidential and cannot be shared without prior written consent, except in emergencies or as required by law. Schools may opt out of the SBIRT program if they implement an alternative substance abuse intervention program, provided they submit a detailed description and justification to the Department of Education. The State Board of Education, in consultation with the Commissioner of Human Services, will establish regulations to ensure the effective implementation of the SBIRT program.