NJ A5823

Creates a licensure pathway for non-hospital based inpatient residential mental health treatment facilities in New Jersey, serving adolescents (ages 12-21) and adults for mid-to-long-term stays of 45 to 120 days

Requires facilities to obtain national accreditation (such as Joint Commission), maintain minimum staffing ratios of licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, and provide comprehensive treatment including medication management, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and holistic services

Establishes a Mental Health Workforce Development Program offering training grants, loan forgiveness for professionals committing to 5 years of practice in the state, and competitive salary incentives to address the shortage affecting approximately 40,000 residents in underserved areas

Mandates the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services develop licensure regulations within 180 days, with annual unannounced inspections and public reporting of compliance findings

Requires annual reporting to the Governor and Legislature on licensed facility numbers, patient outcomes, hospital admission reductions, and workforce program results