Bill

Bill > SJR98


NJ SJR98

NJ SJR98
Designates second week in May of each year as "Food Allergy Awareness Week."


summary

Introduced
03/07/2024
In Committee
03/07/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This joint resolution designates the second week in May of each year as "Food Allergy Awareness Week." Food allergies affect approximately 15 million Americans, including six million children. A food allergy is an immune system response to a food the body mistakenly believes is harmful. When a person with a food allergy consumes food containing allergens, his or her immune system releases certain chemicals, such as histamine, that trigger symptoms affecting the respiratory system, the gastrointestinal tract, the skin, and the cardiovascular system. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between 1997 and 2011, the prevalence of food allergies rose 50 percent and appears to be increasing among children. Those suffering from food allergies are typically allergic to foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, egg, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. There is no cure for food allergies, and as a result, strict avoidance is the only way to prevent an allergic reaction. Managing a food allergy on a daily basis involves constant vigilance as trace amounts of an allergen can trigger an allergic reaction in certain individuals. Public education regarding food allergies is necessary to promote food allergy awareness and support those who are impacted by food allergies.

AI Summary

This joint resolution designates the second full week in May as "Food Allergy Awareness Week" in New Jersey, drawing attention to the significant health issue of food allergies that affect approximately 15 million Americans, including six million children. The resolution highlights the serious nature of food allergies, which are an immune system response where the body mistakenly identifies certain foods as harmful, potentially triggering severe reactions affecting multiple body systems. Recognizing that food allergies have increased by 50 percent between 1997 and 2011, with common allergens including peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish, the resolution emphasizes that there is no cure and management requires constant vigilance. The resolution authorizes the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging public officials and New Jersey residents to observe the week with appropriate activities and programs, including the distribution of orange ribbons, with the goal of promoting public education, raising awareness, and supporting those impacted by food allergies.

Committee Categories

Health and Social Services

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee (on 03/07/2024)

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