New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4756

Introduced
10/3/22  
Refer
10/3/22  
Refer
10/13/22  
Report Pass
12/8/22  
Engrossed
12/15/22  
Refer
12/15/22  
Report Pass
2/13/23  
Enrolled
2/27/23  
Chaptered
5/8/23  

Caption

Requires Division of Children's System of Care to establish training program for employees of emergency shelters for homeless.

Impact

The enactment of A4756 is expected to improve the standard of care in emergency shelters by ensuring that staff are well-equipped to assist some of the most vulnerable populations, including youth facing mental health challenges. With proper training, shelter staff would be more effective in linking families and youth to necessary services, thus promoting better outcomes for homeless individuals and families seeking assistance.

Summary

A4756 is a legislative bill aimed at enhancing the capabilities of staff working in emergency shelters for homeless individuals. Specifically, the bill mandates the Division of Children's System of Care to create and implement a comprehensive training program for the employees of these shelters. This training will cover important aspects such as accessing various services provided by the division, including support for youth with emotional and behavioral challenges, and substance use issues.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around bill A4756 appears to be positive among legislators and stakeholders who recognize the necessity of training in shelters. Advocates argue that well-trained staff can make a significant difference in the quality of services provided to homeless populations, particularly for youths who may struggle with various challenges. The support for such training initiatives is echoed in various discussions and endorsements from child welfare organizations.

Contention

While the general support for A4756 is evident, some discussions might focus on resource allocation and the practical implications of training implementation. Key points of contention could include how the training programs will be structured, the ongoing costs associated with training updates, and whether these efforts will sufficiently address the diverse needs of homeless individuals. However, the overarching goal remains firmly focused on strengthening the network of support for those who are homeless.

Companion Bills

NJ S3262

Same As Requires Division of Children's System of Care to establish training program for employees of emergency shelters for homeless.

Similar Bills

NC H674

Child Advocacy Centers/Share Information

NM HB7

Children's Future Act & Fund

LA SB66

Provides relative to the Children's Cabinet and the Child Poverty Prevention Council of Louisiana. (8/1/17)

NJ A1525

Prohibits the sale of certain children's products containing lead, mercury, or cadmium.

NJ A3800

Bans certain children's products containing excessive amounts of lead, mercury, or cadmium.

NJ S1713

Prohibits the sale of certain children's products containing lead, mercury, or cadmium.

NJ A4952

Requires children's psychiatric facilities to have on-site staff members supervise patients 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

NJ S1786

Requires children's psychiatric facilities to have designated staff members visually supervise patients 24 hours a day, seven days a week.