NJ A4124

Requires agencies facilitating voluntary temporary placements of infants, children, parents under 21 with infants, or pregnant women under 21 during crisis situations to be approved by and contract with the Department of Children and Families before making placements.

Mandates home studies for prospective volunteer hosts, including child abuse registry checks and state and federal criminal history background checks for volunteers and all household members 18 years or older, with costs paid by volunteers.

Defines "crisis" to include homelessness, hospitalization, substance abuse or mental health issues, domestic violence, unemployment, or situations leaving a child without available care or a pregnant woman without safe housing.

Requires approved agencies to provide weekly oversight visits to temporary homes, assist parents or pregnant women in restoring stable lives, and arrange alternative placements when necessary.

Limits temporary placements to no more than 12 months and requires volunteers to be at least 21 years old and provide homes without compensation.