TRENTON, NJ – New Jersey lawmakers are considering a proposal that would allow minors as young as 14 to seek behavioral health treatment without parental consent, lowering the current threshold by two years in an effort to address rising youth mental health concerns and suicide rates.
Assembly Bill 2874, sponsored by Assemblyman Anthony S. Verrelli (D–Hunterdon/Mercer) and Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez (D–Hudson), was pre-filed for introduction in the 2024–2025 legislative session. The measure would amend existing law to permit 14- and 15-year-olds to independently consent to temporary outpatient behavioral health care — including counseling and therapy — under the supervision of a licensed professional.
The bill excludes the use or administration of medication and specifies that treatment obtained by a consenting minor would remain confidential between the patient and the provider. Parents or guardians would not need to approve or be notified of such care unless otherwise required by law.
Under current law, minors must be at least 16 years old to consent to behavioral health treatment without a parent or guardian. Proponents of the bill say that lowering the age limit will make it easier for young people experiencing anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges to access help quickly and privately.
According to legislative findings, suicide remains the third leading cause of death among New Jersey teens. Between 2016 and 2018, the state recorded 291 suicide deaths among residents aged 10 to 24. Lawmakers cited data showing that adolescent suicides increased during the COVID-19 pandemic and noted that at least 24 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico already allow minors to consent to certain mental health services, with 10 states permitting it for children as young as 12.
Verrelli and Ramirez said the proposal is intended to remove barriers to early intervention and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health care among adolescents.
If enacted, the measure would take effect immediately.
A New Jersey bill would allow minors aged 14 and older to independently consent to outpatient mental health treatment in an effort to expand youth access to behavioral health care.
