LEGISLATIVE FISCAL ESTIMATE TO

[First Reprint]

ASSEMBLY, No. 400

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED: JANUARY 22, 1997

      Bill Summary:

      Assembly Bill No. 400 (1R) of 1996 requires all positive toxicology test results on newborn infants to be reported to the Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) in the Department of Human Services (DHS). The Commissioner of Human Services, in consultation with the Commissioner of Health and Senior Services, shall specify the specific toxicology tests to be performed. DYFS would establish procedures to provide supportive services, including drug rehabilitation, to a newborn infant and the newborn infant's family when the newborn has a positive toxicology test result.

      Agency Comments:

      DHS and the Office of Management and Budget have not provided any fiscal information on the legislation.

      Office of Legislative Services Comments:

      The Office of Legislative Services is not able to estimate the cost associated with the legislation because the following information or data are not available:

∙    Whether a separate toxicology test is required or if the toxicology test can be done in conjunction with other blood tests conducted on a newborn infant.

∙    The number of births that will have a positive toxicology test and will have to be investigated by DYFS to determine whether supportive services are required.

∙    The number of newborn infants and their families that are determined by DYFS to require supportive services; and

∙    The supportive services that will be required.

      This legislative fiscal estimate has been produced by the Office of Legislative Services due to the failure of the Executive Branch to respond to our request for a fiscal note.

This fiscal estimate has been prepared pursuant to P.L.1980, c.67.