NJ A4031

Upgrades the crime of making or receiving payments for patient referrals to substance use disorder treatment facilities from a fourth degree to a third degree offense

Imposes a mandatory $50,000 fine and restitution for violations of the patient referral prohibition

Explicitly includes health care providers, health care facilities, non-profit organizations, and recovery residences (sober living homes) as entities subject to the referral payment ban

Maintains existing exceptions allowing payments that do not vary based on number of patients referred, duration/level of treatment services, or insurance benefits paid to the facility

Takes effect 30 days after enactment and amends P.L.2021, c.31 (C.2C:40A-6)