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NJ A933

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/13/2026

Primary Sponsor

Carol Murphy

Click for details

Origin

General Assembly

2026-2027 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Expands the definition of "abused child" and "abused or neglected child" to include cases where physical injury, sexual abuse, or excessive physical restraint is committed by any person, not just parents, guardians, or those with custody and control of the child.

  • Requires the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP) to refer children who engage in problematic sexual behaviors, along with their parents or guardians, to regional diagnostic and treatment centers, child advocacy centers, or behavioral health providers for services.

  • Makes acceptance of behavioral health services voluntary unless DCPP determines the child poses a high risk of continuing problematic sexual behaviors and the child or parent refuses services, in which case participation becomes mandatory.

  • Requires DCPP to document in the child's case plan the types of services offered, reasons for the services, whether participation was voluntary or mandated, when services were provided, and the outcomes in reducing future risk.

  • Takes effect on the first day of the third month following enactment.

Legislative Description

Revises definition of child abuse or neglect to include additional perpetrators; establishes requirements concerning provision of services to children who engage in problematic sexual behaviors.

Judiciary

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee

1/13/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary1/13/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available