Establishes Statewide program to provide treatment services for children exposed to domestic violence.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Sterley Stanley

Establishes a statewide program to provide coordinated treatment and services for children exposed to domestic violence.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee

Summary of Bill A 5103 (Session 222) – New Jersey

Purpose and intent

Establishes a statewide program to provide treatment services for children exposed to domestic violence.

Aims to address the needs of minors who have witnessed or been exposed to domestic violence by ensuring access to coordinated treatment, support, and services within the state.

Key provisions and changes

Creation of a statewide program dedicated to treatment services for children affected by domestic violence exposure.

Development and implementation requirements likely include:

Establishing program standards, protocols, and eligibility criteria for children and families.
Providing or coordinating therapeutic services (e.g., counseling, mental health treatment) tailored to children’s needs who have been exposed to domestic violence.
Ensuring coordination among relevant state agencies, service providers, and local communities to deliver services.

Potential emphasis on early intervention, ongoing assessment, and case management to track progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.

May include reporting requirements, oversight mechanisms, and performance metrics to monitor program effectiveness.

Who and what is affected

Target population: children who have been exposed to domestic violence.

Service providers: state agencies, licensed child welfare, mental health professionals, and community-based organizations involved in delivering treatment and support.

Families and caregivers: individuals connected to affected children who may participate in treatment planning and services.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Legislative action: Introduced and referred to the Assembly Judiciary Committee (as of 2026-05-18).

The bill is sponsored by an Assembly member with a co-sponsor listed (Sterley Stanley).

As an introductory measure, it will undergo committee review, potential amendments, and, if advanced, floor consideration and possible passage, with subsequent steps in the legislative process as dictated by New Jersey’s procedures.

Specific timelines (e.g., funding start dates, implementation milestones, reporting deadlines) are not detailed in the provided information and would be defined in the bill’s text or future amendments.

Potential impact and considerations

Increases availability of specialized treatment services for a vulnerable population (children exposed to domestic violence).

Could enhance coordination across state agencies and service providers, potentially improving outcomes for children and families.

Implementation will depend on funding, administrative capacity, and the specificity of program standards and performance metrics contained in the final bill or accompanying budget provisions.

Note: The summary is based on the bill’s title and introductory action. The final text may include detailed definitions, eligibility criteria, funding provisions, governance structure, and reporting requirements that would provide a fuller picture of program design and impact.