NJ A1673

Requires certified mental health professionals to offer culturally affirmative and linguistically appropriate mental health services to deaf and hard of hearing clients in their primary communication method, including American Sign Language, English-based sign systems, or oral/aural systems

Directs the Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to implement statewide mental health services, recruit qualified professionals fluent in sign language, establish certification processes, and develop strategies for underserved geographic areas including telemedicine options

Creates an advisory committee of 10 members appointed by the Commissioner of Human Services, including at least 6 individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, to advise on implementation of mental health services

Requires mental health professionals to provide one-on-one services from certified professionals fluent in the client's communication method; when unavailable, clients must be offered telemedicine services or an interpreter at no cost

Takes effect 180 days after enactment and authorizes the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services and Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to adopt necessary rules and regulations