WeVote
Log In

Bill

VF

Bill

A 1077

Requires reporting of suicide attempts made by first responders.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Vicky Flynn and 2 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill mandates first responders report suicide attempts to authorities, aiming to enable intervention and suicide prevention among high-risk occupational groups.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
#emersvcs #mentalhealt
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 1077

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 1077 requires first responders in New Jersey to report suicide attempts to designated authorities or agencies. The bill establishes a mandatory reporting framework for incidents involving police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and other classified first responders who attempt suicide.

Why is this important

First responders face significantly higher suicide rates than the general population due to occupational stress, trauma exposure, and access to lethal means. Mandatory reporting could enable early intervention, mental health support, and suicide prevention efforts. This addresses a critical public health gap while potentially improving workplace safety culture and reducing loss of life within these professions.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy and confidentiality concerns: Mandatory reporting may discourage first responders from seeking help if they fear career consequences, disciplinary action, or loss of firearms/certifications, potentially having the opposite effect intended
  • Implementation burden: Unclear who reports (employers, hospitals, mental health providers), to whom, what triggers reporting, and how information flows creates administrative complexity and potential inconsistencies
  • Scope and definition ambiguity: The bill's treatment of attempt severity, timeline for reporting, and whether it applies to off-duty personnel or only work-related incidents remains undefined in available information

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

Sign in to ask a question.