ASSEMBLY COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE

 

STATEMENT TO

 

ASSEMBLY, No. 1893

 

with committee amendments

 

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

 

DATED: MAY 13, 1996

 

 

      The Assembly Community Services Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 1893 with committee amendments.

      As amended by the committee, this bill provides that when the Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family Part makes a finding of abuse or neglect, pursuant to section 30 of P.L.1974, c.119 (C.9:6-8.50 et seq.), and the child is placed in the custody of a relative or other suitable person or the Division of Youth and Family Services, the court shall require the parent to undergo substance abuse assessment, when necessary. If there is positive evidence of substance abuse, the parent shall demonstrate to the court that he is receiving treatment and complying with the treatment plan for the substance abuse problem before the child is returned to the parental home.

      The committee amendments change the language requiring the parent to undergo substance abuse testing to substance abuse assessment, and add "when necessary" to that requirement. The amendments also require the parent to demonstrate that he is receiving treatment and complying with the treatment program. In addition, the amendments add a section to the bill requiring the Commissioner of Human Services to promulgate regulations in regard to the implementation of the bill.