NJ S4555

Requires New Jersey Medicaid to cover assisted living services for individuals with serious mental illness who cannot perform instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) necessary for independent living, even if they can perform basic self-care activities

IADLs include managing medications, adhering to treatment plans, managing finances, meal preparation, maintaining living spaces, using transportation, and engaging in social interactions

Establishes a functional assessment process conducted by a licensed mental health professional to determine eligibility, considering medical records, psychiatric history, functional evaluations, and input from physicians, mental health professionals, and family members

Directs the Commissioner of Human Services to apply for federal Medicaid waivers or state plan amendments to secure federal financial participation for the new coverage

Takes effect on the first day of the sixth month following enactment, with implementing regulations required within 180 days