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Bill

S 193

Allows follow up communication from operators of telephone number for mental health and suicide crisis resources or 9-8-8 crisis hotline to minors at risk of committing suicide.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by John Burzichelli and 1 co-sponsor

Allows 988 crisis hotline operators to follow up with at-risk minors by phone, balancing suicide prevention with parental notification and privacy concerns.

Withdrawn Because Approved P.L.2025, c.238.
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Bill Summary · S 193

Legislative bill overview

S 193 would have permitted operators of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to conduct follow-up communications with minors identified as being at risk of suicide. The bill was withdrawn after New Jersey passed similar legislation (P.L.2025, c.238), indicating the policy goal was achieved through an alternative bill.

Why is this important

The 988 hotline serves as a critical mental health resource for individuals in crisis, and follow-up communication with at-risk minors could improve intervention outcomes and prevent suicide attempts. However, this touches on sensitive issues around minor privacy protections, parental notification rights, and the scope of crisis counselor authority.

Potential points of contention

  • Parental rights and notification: Whether parents/guardians must be informed when crisis operators initiate follow-up contact with their minor children
  • Privacy and consent: What information can be collected and retained about minors during follow-up communications, and whether parental consent is required
  • Scope of authority: Whether follow-up should be limited to mental health support or could include information gathering and documentation that extends beyond crisis intervention

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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