New Jersey Assembly Bill A1140

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires involuntary commitment of certain individuals who have been administered opioid antidotes.

Impact

The implications of A1140 are significant for New Jersey's legal framework regarding mental health and involuntary treatment. The law alters the current understanding of what constitutes a danger to self by including those who have undergone emergency treatment for overdose. This responds to an increasing opioid crisis by allowing for timely intervention, facilitating access to necessary treatments before the potential for self-harm increases. The act is poised to impact how mental health and emergency services collaborate in addressing drug overdoses, possibly increasing the number of individuals who receive mental health evaluations and subsequent commitments.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1140 mandates the involuntary commitment of individuals who have received opioid antidotes, particularly after experiencing an apparent opioid overdose. The bill redefines the term 'dangerous to self' under current mental health law to include those recently administered an opioid antidote like naloxone hydrochloride. This change aims to address the concerns surrounding individuals who are at immediate risk of harm due to substance abuse issues, thus prioritizing public safety and health management for persons with addiction problems.

Contention

There are potential points of contention surrounding A1140, particularly regarding individual rights and the ethical implications of involuntary commitment. Critics may argue that the bill could infringe on personal liberties, compelling individuals into treatment against their will, which may contradict principles of voluntary care and rehabilitation. Supporters, however, assert that the legislation is crucial for protecting individuals who are unable to appreciate the severe risks posed by their addiction, thereby justifying the need for emergency interventions in such cases.