New Jersey Assembly Bill A3157

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Report Pass: 9/19/24
• Engrossed: 5/22/25
• Refer: 5/29/25

Caption

Requires DMVA create Bereavement Counseling Program for family members and volunteer caregivers of certain veterans.

Impact

The implementation of A3157 is anticipated to have a significant impact on the state's approach to veterans' mental health services. By creating this program, the DMVA will bridge a critical gap in support for grieving families and caregivers, ensuring they have access to professionally qualified counseling without financial burden. The provision for up to 30 counseling hours annually for up to 24 months after the veteran's death, along with the administrative collaboration with funeral directors and veteran services, combines resources effectively to assist families during tragic circumstances.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3157 requires the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) to establish a Bereavement Counseling Program aimed at providing support to family members and volunteer caregivers of veterans who have died by suicide. The bill defines veterans, family members, and volunteer caregivers and stipulates eligibility criteria for the counseling program. It emphasizes the need for mental health services tailored to those impacted by veteran suicides, a serious issue affecting military families.

Contention

While the bill has broad supportive intentions, there may be varied perspectives regarding its implementation. Some might argue about the adequacy of resources and clinicians available to meet the anticipated demand for services. Concerns could also arise around ensuring that the program reaches all eligible families effectively and maintaining a high standard for the quality of mental health services delivered. Furthermore, the collaboration with the federal Veterans Affairs may warrant scrutiny regarding inter-agency efficiency and responsiveness.