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Bill

CA

Bill

A 4897

Revises law requiring certain student identification cards to contain telephone number for suicide prevention hotline.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Carmen Amato and 14 co-sponsors

New Jersey law now requires student ID cards to display suicide prevention hotline numbers, aiming to provide mental health crisis resources accessible to young people.

Approved P.L.2025, c.112.
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Bill Summary · A 4897

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 4897 revises New Jersey's existing law that requires certain student identification cards to display a suicide prevention hotline telephone number. The bill has been passed by both chambers of the legislature and signed into law (P.L.2025, c.112), modifying the requirements or implementation of this mental health resource mandate on student IDs.

Why is this important

Student identification cards are items that young people carry regularly, making them a practical vehicle for distributing mental health crisis resources. By ensuring suicide prevention hotline numbers are accessible on student IDs, the legislation aims to provide immediate help information to students experiencing mental health crises when they may be most vulnerable.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Schools may face expenses updating ID card designs, printing systems, and inventory to comply with new requirements
  • Scope and specificity: Questions about which grade levels, school types (public/private/charter), and student populations are covered by the mandate
  • Effectiveness measurement: Limited evidence on whether hotline numbers on IDs actually increase call rates or improve outcomes, raising questions about cost-benefit justification

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

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