New Jersey Assembly Bill A3184

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires DCF and DOE to provide certain child abuse and neglect services or information remotely or through distance learning mechanisms.

Impact

The bill's implementation would significantly reshape how child abuse and neglect services are delivered, particularly during emergencies that restrict physical access to services. It requires the Department of Education to collaborate with the DCF to offer statewide instructional content concerning the understanding and prevention of child abuse and neglect. This requirement emphasizes the importance of education in safeguarding children and empowers families by providing them with information about available resources and support mechanisms.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3184 mandates that during the public health emergency declared under P.L.2005, c.222 in response to COVID-19, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) must implement procedures allowing children under its care and their families to access essential services remotely via telephone or online communication. This includes access to crisis intervention, mental health care, and housing advocacy services. The bill aims to ensure that families can continue receiving necessary support without needing to engage in in-person appointments during the ongoing health crisis.

Contention

While the bill aims to enhance service delivery during a public health crisis, there may be concerns regarding the effectiveness of remote services as compared to traditional in-person interactions. Stakeholders might debate the adequacy of virtual communication in delivering sensitive and complex case management services, which often require detailed personal interactions. Additionally, there could be apprehensions about the potential digital divide, where families without reliable access to technology or the internet may be inadvertently excluded from receiving essential services.