N.J. Admin. Code § 15A:3-1.6

Current through Register Vol. 56, No. 12, June 17, 2024

Section 15A:3-1.6 - Confidentiality of information; privileged communications

(a) The Office shall maintain confidentiality with respect to all matters in relation to any complaint or investigation, together with the identities of the complainants, witnesses or residents involved, unless such persons authorize, in writing, the release of such information, except for such disclosures as the Ombudsperson deems necessary to enable the Office to perform its duties and to support any opinions or recommendations that may result from a complaint or investigation. The investigatory files of the Office, including all complaints and responses of the Office to complaints, shall be maintained as confidential information. Release of pertinent records shall be at the discretion of the Ombudsperson.

(b) Any statement or communication made by the Office relevant to a complaint received by, proceedings before, or investigative activities of, the Office, and any complaint or information made or provided in good faith by any person, shall be absolutely privileged and such privilege shall be a complete defense in any action which shall allege libel or slander.