New Jersey Assembly Bill A3087

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22

Caption

Concerns Early Intervention Support Services program in DHS and expansion of program to all counties.

Impact

This legislative initiative addresses the urgent need for mental health resources and highlights the state's commitment to improving behavioral health services. By expanding EISS programs statewide, the bill seeks to reduce the overutilization of hospital emergency departments for behavioral health crises, offering individuals timely access to critical support. This measure is expected to enhance the overall mental health spectrum in New Jersey, benefiting not just individuals but the healthcare system as a whole by preventing crises from escalating.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3087 focuses on enhancing access to Early Intervention Support Services (EISS) programs across New Jersey by expanding their availability to all counties. Currently, EISS programs operate in only 11 counties, and this bill aims to ensure that every county will have at least one designated program. These programs are crucial for providing short-term, recovery-oriented crisis intervention and crisis stabilization services to individuals aged 18 and older who experience serious mental illness. The services offered will include access to medication, therapy, and case management, either in designated facilities or through community outreach efforts.

Contention

While the bill appears to have widespread support as a necessary intervention for mental health, possible points of contention may arise concerning funding, implementation logistics, and the sufficiency of resources allocated to sustain the expanded programs. Critics may question whether the existing infrastructure can support the expanded services effectively or if further resources, including funding and staffing, will be necessary to achieve the desired outcomes. Additionally, the Commissioner of Human Services is tasked with overseeing the implementation and coordination of these programs, which could raise issues about accountability and efficacy in execution.