NJ S3994

Public and nonpublic secondary schools in New Jersey (grades 9-12) must conduct annual written or verbal substance use screenings on all students using the Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) program.

Screenings in public schools must be administered by certified student assistance coordinators, school nurses, counselors, social workers, or psychologists; nonpublic schools must use licensed health care professionals.

Students who screen positive for potential substance misuse must receive brief motivational interviewing counseling and assistance with treatment referral options.

Parents or guardians must receive written notice before screening and may opt their student out; all student statements during screenings are confidential and cannot be disclosed without written consent from both the student and parent, except for medical emergencies or when required by law.

Schools with alternative substance abuse intervention programs may opt out by submitting detailed descriptions of their programs and reasons why SBIRT is not appropriate for their use.