The NJ State Bar Association supports A4970, which would provide a grant to study and map mental health care resources for children. In addition to evaluating the current landscape, the bill directs the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute to identify and highlight barriers to care, so that they can compile and analyze data on pediatric mental health outcomes. The study will provide pertinent information regarding payer type, race, ethnicity and other relevant characteristics, which will provide valuable information in order to address pediatric mental health services, especially where it intersects with the legal system.
The NJSBA suggests a friendly amendment to include as a stakeholder attorneys who work with children and families. The NJSBA urges you to vote yes on this bill.