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Acting Gov. Tahesha Way signed a pair of bills on Monday to protect individuals seeking treatment for substance use, according to a press release from the governor’s office.

“It is important to protect individuals dealing with addiction,” Way said in a release. “We must ensure proper treatment without exploitation by holding providers accountable and implementing strong safeguards. Too often, vulnerable people are targeted by those who prioritize profit over care, which is unacceptable.”

Gov. Phil Murphy returns from two weeks of out-of-state personal travel on Tuesday afternoon.

The first bill, A3973, targets the practice of “patient brokering,” where individuals or groups accept kickbacks to refer people struggling with addiction to specific treatment centers. A 2024 report from the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation spurred the bill. The law allows fines of up to $50,000 per offense.

“Families deserve to know that their loved ones are being referred to treatment centers for the right reasons, and just as importantly, that those seeking help aren’t being misled by deceptive and unethical schemes,” said Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli (D-Hopewell Twp), one of the bill’s prime sponsors. “That’s why these bills are so important, cracking down on exploitative practices that prey on people in crisis and ensuring patients have access to accurate, honest information, not false promises that stand in the way of recovery.”

The second bill, A3974, prohibits “deceptive marketing practices” by addiction treatment centers. The legislation authorizes fines of up to $20,000 per violation. 

“Treatment for substance use disorder is a lifeline for those grappling with addiction, and it is reprehensible that patients are being exploited by dishonest marketing tactics in moments of vulnerability,” said Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz. “These practices too often put a roadblock on the path to sobriety for those who need help, and must be curbed if we are to effectively treat substance use disorder.”

Jeff Brown, the acting commissioner of the state Department of Health, said the bill will hold accountable those who exploit people suffering from addiction.

“New Jersey is sending a clear message that we will not tolerate predatory practices toward individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorder,” Brown said. “It’s critical that New Jersey’s health care facilities serving these individuals advertise their services honestly and truthfully. When they don’t, they should be held accountable.”

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