Bill > SJR75

This joint resolution designates May of each year as "Youth Smoking Prevention and Awareness Month" in New Jersey, addressing the significant public health issue of youth tobacco use. The resolution highlights alarming statistics, noting that nearly a quarter of middle school students and almost half of high school students have used tobacco products, and that nearly all smokers begin before age 18. Recognizing the serious health consequences of smoking, which include various cancers, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory problems, and the substantial human and economic costs (an estimated 480,000 annual deaths nationwide and nearly $300 billion in national healthcare and productivity losses), the resolution aims to promote awareness about the dangers of smoking among youth. It requests the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging public officials and citizens to observe the month with educational activities and programs focused on smoking prevention and cessation among middle and high school students, with a particular emphasis on preventing first-time tobacco experimentation, which often occurs during summer months.

Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/SJR75