Bill > AJR35

This Joint Resolution designates October of each year as "Opioid Abuse Prevention Month" to raise awareness about the dangers of opioid abuse, which includes prescription painkillers like Oxycodone and Percocet, and the highly addictive drug heroin. The resolution highlights the severe public health crisis caused by opioid addiction, including increased overdose deaths, the spread of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis C, and the strain on law enforcement and healthcare systems, as reported by various government agencies like the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), as well as the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation (SCI). By establishing this annual observance, the resolution aims to encourage education, promote efforts to combat opioid abuse, support rehabilitation and recovery, and foster community engagement in addressing this widespread epidemic. The Governor is called upon to issue an annual proclamation to recognize this month and urge public participation in related activities and programs.