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Bill

S 2495

Establishes New Jersey Statewide Suicide Prevention Coordination and Oversight Council in DHS.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Greenstein and 2 co-sponsors

New Jersey establishes a statewide suicide prevention coordination council within the Department of Human Services to align prevention efforts across state agencies.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee
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Bill Summary · S 2495

Legislative bill overview

S 2495 creates a new Statewide Suicide Prevention Coordination and Oversight Council within New Jersey's Department of Human Services. The council would coordinate suicide prevention efforts across state agencies, develop comprehensive prevention strategies, and oversee implementation of evidence-based interventions.

Why is this important

Suicide remains a significant public health issue in New Jersey, and fragmented prevention efforts across multiple agencies can create gaps in service delivery and reduce overall effectiveness. A centralized coordinating body could improve data sharing, resource allocation, and ensure vulnerable populations receive consistent access to prevention and mental health services.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and staffing: The bill may require new appropriations for council operations, staff positions, and prevention programs, which could face budgetary constraints
  • Scope of authority: Questions may arise about whether the council has sufficient authority to mandate coordination from other state agencies or if it remains merely advisory
  • Implementation timeline and outcomes: Legislators may debate whether performance metrics and accountability measures are adequately defined to ensure the council achieves measurable suicide reduction results

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

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