Bill > AJR153

This joint resolution designates May as "Youth Smoking Prevention and Awareness Month" in New Jersey, addressing the significant health and economic challenges posed by youth tobacco use. The resolution highlights alarming statistics, including that nearly a quarter of middle school and half of high school students have used tobacco products, and that almost all smokers begin before age 18. It aims to raise public awareness about the serious short-term and long-term health consequences of smoking, which include respiratory problems, various cancers, heart disease, and stroke, and notes the substantial human and financial costs, with an estimated 480,000 annual deaths nationwide and nearly $300 billion in related expenses. The resolution requests the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging public officials and citizens to participate in activities and programs that promote smoking prevention and cessation among middle and high school students, with a particular focus on educating youth about the dangers of tobacco use before summer months, when first-time experimentation often occurs.

Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/AJR153