NJ S3480

Creates the Office of the Ombudsman for Mental Health and Addiction Services in New Jersey, allocated within the Department of the Treasury but operating independently of any departmental supervision or control.

Governor appoints the Ombudsman, who must be qualified by training and experience with recognized judgment, integrity, objectivity, and skills in communication, conflict resolution, and professionalism.

Ombudsman duties include helping individuals find treatment facilities, ensuring patients receive proper care, providing educational programs and confidential drug counseling, offering vocational guidance and job placement, and educating the public about substance use disorder harms.

All communications and personally identifiable information received by the Ombudsman must be treated as confidential, with disclosure only permitted when necessary to perform duties and with consent obtained.

Requires annual written reports to the Commissioner of Human Services, Governor, and Legislature summarizing services provided and recommending improvements to the State's mental health and addiction support systems.