Assembly approves follow‑up calls from suicide hotlines to minors after motion to require parental notice is tabled

The New Jersey General Assembly passed Assembly Bill 30‑16 on third reading after a contentious floor exchange over parental notification. The bill permits operators of the state suicide hotline and COPE line to make follow‑up calls to minors identified as at‑risk.

A floor motion to return the bill to second reading so the body could add an amendment requiring parental notice within 24 hours was offered by one member and seconded by colleagues; Majority Leader Louis Greenwald moved to table that motion. The motion to table passed by roll call 41‑26, preventing the proposed parental‑notice amendment from being considered on the floor.

Supporters of the bill described it as an important tool to keep vulnerable minors connected to care. Opponents and several members urged stronger parental involvement, with one member saying, "Parents are the first line of defense in ensuring children's safety" and calling for statutory notice requirements.

After the tabled amendment and further debate, the Assembly reported a final tally of 55 yes, 18 no and 1 abstention and declared the bill passed. Members recorded floor statements asking for clarifications about parental rights and for future technical amendments to address notification procedures.

What happens next: With Assembly passage the bill will continue through the legislative process to the Senate and, if enacted, will require implementing guidance to reconcile confidentiality, parental‑notification expectations and protections for minors seeking help.