Provides that persons between 18 and 21 years of age with disabilities are eligible to receive direct support professional services from DHS.

This bill (S 2569) expands eligibility for direct support services from New Jersey’s Department of Human Services (DHS) to individuals with disabilities aged 18-21. Currently, these services are only available to those 21 and older, leaving early high school graduates without access. The law requires DHS to provide daily, non-medical support focused on community integration, employment, health decisions, and daily living skills. It mandates DHS to create implementing rules within 90 days, with consultation from other state agencies. The change directly affects young adults with disabilities who transition out of school before age 21.