SENATE WOMEN'S ISSUES, CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

SENATE COMMITTEE SUBSTITUTE FOR

SENATE, Nos. 996 and 1355

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED: OCTOBER 7,1996

      The Senate Women's Issues, Children and Family Services Committee favorably reports a Senate Committee Substitute for Senate Bill Nos. 996 and 1355.

      This committee substitute 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), and the child is placed in the custody of the Division of Youth and Family Services or a relative or other suitable person, the court shall require the parent to undergo substance abuse assessment, when necessary. If there is positive evidence of substance abuse, the parent must 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.