New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S4065

Introduced
11/27/23  

Caption

Requires DCPP to consult with Division of Developmental Disabilities following finding of child abuse or neglect to create services plan for person with developmental disability under certain circumstances.

Impact

The implications of S4065 for state law include a direct amendment to existing legislation under P.L.1974, c.119, particularly in enhancing the protocols followed when dealing with cases of child abuse where developmental disabilities are a factor. By requiring DCPP to involve DDD in creating service plans, the bill not only promotes a more integrated approach to child welfare but also emphasizes the necessity for specialized care for those with developmental disabilities. This change may facilitate better outcomes for both children and families involved in the child protection system, ensuring that all stakeholders are equipped to address the complexities of each situation.

Summary

Senate Bill 4065, introduced on November 27, 2023, mandates that the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP) consult with the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) following a court finding of child abuse or neglect in cases involving individuals with developmental disabilities. This consultation aims to create a tailored services plan that accommodates the specific needs arising from the individual's disability. The bill seeks to improve the response of child welfare services to vulnerable populations by ensuring that therapeutic services are appropriately developed and implemented for individuals with developmental disabilities who come into contact with the judicial system due to child abuse or neglect cases.

Contention

While supporters of S4065 argue that it enhances the welfare of children with developmental disabilities by ensuring they receive necessary therapeutic services prior to decisions being made about their care, critics may raise concerns about the additional bureaucratic layers this creates. Some may argue that the requirement for DCPP to consult with DDD could delay the delivery of timely interventions necessary to protect children. The bill attempts to strike a balance between ensuring thorough oversight in care services and the urgency required in situations of child abuse and neglect, which could lead to discussions regarding the efficiency of such procedural requirements.

Companion Bills

NJ A5168

Same As Requires DCPP to consult with Division of Developmental Disabilities following finding of child abuse or neglect to create services plan for person with developmental disability under certain circumstances.

Previously Filed As

NJ S720

Requires DCPP to consult with Division of Developmental Disabilities following finding of child abuse or neglect to create services plan for person with developmental disability under certain circumstances.

NJ A5168

Requires DCPP to consult with Division of Developmental Disabilities following finding of child abuse or neglect to create services plan for person with developmental disability under certain circumstances.

NJ A4168

Requires DCPP to consult with Division of Developmental Disabilities following finding of child abuse or neglect to create services plan for person with developmental disability under certain circumstances.

NJ A1289

Provides a plan to rebalance State resources to provide community services and supports for persons with developmental disabilities.

NJ S1079

Concerns special needs trusts for persons with developmental disabilities.

NJ A2970

Concerns special needs trusts for persons with developmental disabilities.

NJ A2863

Concerns special needs trusts for persons with developmental disabilities.

NJ S0112

Children with Developmental Disabilities

NJ S1082

Provides a plan to rebalance State resources to provide community services and supports for persons with developmental disabilities.

NJ H0591

Children with Developmental Disabilities

Similar Bills

NJ S720

Requires DCPP to consult with Division of Developmental Disabilities following finding of child abuse or neglect to create services plan for person with developmental disability under certain circumstances.

NJ A5168

Requires DCPP to consult with Division of Developmental Disabilities following finding of child abuse or neglect to create services plan for person with developmental disability under certain circumstances.

NJ S233

Provides for certain group home licensees to obtain Medicaid reimbursement for reservation of beds used by residents on therapeutic leave.

NJ S378

Provides for certain group home licensees to obtain Medicaid reimbursement for reservation of beds used by residents on therapeutic leave.

MD HB725

Children - Therapeutic Child Care Grant Program - Establishment

CA AB1199

Music therapy.

NJ A4168

Requires DCPP to consult with Division of Developmental Disabilities following finding of child abuse or neglect to create services plan for person with developmental disability under certain circumstances.

CA AB2121

Substance use disorder treatment: licensing.