ASSEMBLY APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

[First Reprint]

ASSEMBLY, No. 1893

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED: JUNE 3, 1996

      The Assembly Appropriations Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No.1893 (1R).

      Assembly Bill No.1893 (1R) requires the Superior Court to order the parent of a child removed from parental custody because of abuse or neglect to undergo a substance abuse assessment, when necessary. The bill provides that if the Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family Part makes a finding of child 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.

FISCAL IMPACT:

      The bill requires the court to order substance abuse assessment when necessary, the provision of treatment if there is positive evidence of substance abuse, and the parent's demonstration to the court of treatment and treatment plan compliance before the child is returned to the parental home. The bill does not specify the source or the funding of the assessment or treatment; the court determination of treatment necessity and the demonstration of treatment compliance to the court will increase court time and procedures. No specific information is available on increased court costs.