NJ S4263

Extends the timeframe for studies on involuntary and voluntary psychiatric bed supply and demand, requiring a follow-up report by April 30, 2026, that includes analysis of forensic bed capacity, short-term care facility beds, and the Psychiatric Emergency Screening Services system

Allows short-term care or psychiatric facilities to detain involuntarily admitted patients for up to 72 hours without a temporary court order, and requires court proceedings to be initiated within 24 hours of admission

Permits general hospitals to obtain temporary court orders for an additional 72-hour hold beyond the initial 72 hours if they demonstrate exhausted placement efforts and provide certification from two psychiatrists that the patient poses a danger to self or others

Requires general hospitals and emergency departments to submit quarterly reports to the Department of Human Services detailing extended holds, patient demographics, and placement outcomes, with reports made publicly available

Establishes an educational committee to inform short-term care facilities and county assignment judges about legal obligations to accept patients, and requires development of a data dashboard tracking available mental health and substance use disorder treatment beds statewide