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Bill

Bill

A 5972

Establishes telecommunication fee to support Statewide behavioral health crisis system of care.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Carol Murphy

New Jersey bill establishes dedicated telecommunication fee to fund statewide behavioral health crisis system, creating new revenue stream for mental health emergency services.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Health Committee
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Bill Summary · A 5972

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 5972 establishes a new telecommunication fee in New Jersey to generate revenue for funding a statewide behavioral health crisis system of care. The fee would be collected from telecommunications users and dedicated to supporting crisis intervention services, mental health resources, and related infrastructure across the state.

Why is this important

Mental health crisis services are critically underfunded in many states, leading to inadequate response times and limited access to immediate care. This bill attempts to create a dedicated, sustainable funding stream for these services rather than relying on general appropriations that compete with other state priorities. The outcomes could significantly improve access to behavioral health crisis support for residents experiencing mental health emergencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Telecommunications fee regressive impact: Fees on phone service disproportionately burden lower-income households that already spend a higher percentage of income on utilities and communications
  • Fee amount and scope uncertainty: The bill's text does not specify the fee amount, which customers would bear it (residential, business, or both), or how much revenue would be generated
  • Alternative funding mechanisms: Critics may argue general tax revenue or reallocation of existing mental health funding would be more equitable than a new consumer fee

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

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