New Jersey Assembly Bill A3776

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/24
• Refer: 2/22/24

Caption

Establishes "Cop 2 Cop Sustainability Fund" to support "Law Enforcement Officer Crisis Intervention Services" Cop 2 Cop telephone hotline program; appropriates $500,000.

Impact

The establishment of the Cop 2 Cop Sustainability Fund signifies a substantial commitment from New Jersey state law to address the mental health needs of law enforcement personnel. It expands ongoing efforts to ensure that officers have access to vital psychological support services. Currently, the program is supported by Body Armor Replacement Funds, which allocates up to $400,000 annually for similar initiatives. The additional funding will strengthen the hotline’s operations and potentially improve response efforts to mental health crises within the law enforcement community.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3776 seeks to establish the 'Cop 2 Cop Sustainability Fund' to financially support the 'Law Enforcement Officer Crisis Intervention Services' Cop 2 Cop telephone hotline program. This program is designed to provide a 24-hour confidential hotline aimed at offering emotional support and crisis intervention for law enforcement officers and their families who are experiencing job-related stress, trauma, or psychological issues. By appropriating $500,000 from the state’s General Fund, the bill aims to enhance services already in place for officers facing mental health challenges due to the nature of their work.

Contention

As the bill stands, it brings to light the growing recognition of mental health issues among law enforcement officers and the imperative need for appropriate resources to address these challenges. However, the allocation of state funds specifically for this purpose may also spark discussions regarding budget priorities and funding allocations for other public safety initiatives. Stakeholders might express concerns about the sustainability of the fund and the need for ongoing legislative support to ensure long-term mental health services for law enforcement, which may provoke further examination of related state policies.