New Jersey Assembly Bill A2712

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Requires DCF to establish certain training protocols for staff of children crisis intervention service units and screening centers.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2712 requires the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) to establish training protocols for staff working in children's crisis intervention service units and screening centers. These protocols are designed to provide healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to assist children and youth with developmental disabilities who are experiencing psychiatric or behavioral health crises. The training is mandated to be offered in both traditional and online formats, ensuring accessibility for all involved professionals. The training protocols outlined in A2712 will cover critical areas such as identification of psychiatric crises, effective communication with nonverbal children, as well as strategies for assessing and treating aggressive behaviors. This comprehensive approach aims to address the unique needs of children and youth with developmental disabilities, thereby enhancing the overall standard of care provided. Given the complexity of mental health issues faced by this population, the bill emphasizes the importance of specialized training to ensure that healthcare professionals are equipped to manage these challenges effectively. The bill’s impact on state laws is significant as it supplements Title 9 of the Revised Statutes, mandating a formalized framework for training in a critical and often underserved area of healthcare. By establishing systematic training protocols, A2712 seeks to improve the response of healthcare professionals during crucial intervention moments, ultimately aiming for better health outcomes for vulnerable populations. While the bill has garnered support for its forward-thinking approach to enhance mental health services for children with developmental disabilities, some discussion points may arise regarding the curriculum's effectiveness and the adequacy of the training provided. Stakeholders may question whether the state will allocate sufficient resources and funding to implement these training programs effectively and how these protocols will be monitored and evaluated over time.