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Bill > SJR148
NJ SJR148
NJ SJR148Designates September of each year as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month" in NJ.
summary
Introduced
01/30/2025
01/30/2025
In Committee
05/19/2025
05/19/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill designates September of each year as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month" in New Jersey. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a muscular degenerative disease that results in the progressive loss of muscle tissue and function. DMD is caused by genetic mutations on the X chromosome, which affects approximately 1 out of every 3,500 male infants. Symptoms of DMD generally present between ages two and three and rapidly progress, with many individuals with DMD requiring wheelchair assistance between ages 10 and 12 and a breathing ventilator by age 20. Individuals with DMD may also experience paralysis and cardiopulmonary complications, including difficulty breathing or heart failure. DMD is a fatal disease with an average life expectancy of 25 years. While there is no cure for DMD, non-profit organizations across the country and in New Jersey are dedicated to raising awareness of DMD, advocating for improved care and access to treatment, and funding research to cure this devastating disease. Efforts to improve patients' access to treatment are critical as research indicates that optimal care can help to significantly increase the life expectancy for individuals with DMD. In addition, increasing awareness of DMD may help promote empathy and understanding, foster a sense of community, strengthen advocacy efforts, and encourage social and emotional support for the young people and families affected by DMD. To join and support ongoing public awareness and advocacy efforts, September of each year is designated as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month" in New Jersey. The Governor is requested to issue a proclamation annually to recognize September of each year as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month" and call upon relevant State agencies, organizations, and citizens of the State to observe the month with appropriate awareness activities and programs.
AI Summary
This joint resolution designates September of each year as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month" in New Jersey to raise public consciousness about Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a serious genetic disorder that primarily affects male infants. The resolution highlights that DMD is a rare but devastating muscular degenerative disease caused by X chromosome mutations, which typically causes progressive muscle loss, with symptoms emerging between ages two and three, and often leading to wheelchair dependency by age 10-12 and requiring breathing assistance by age 20. The resolution emphasizes that while DMD is currently incurable and has an average life expectancy of 25 years, recent medical research has identified potential treatments like stem cell and gene therapies, and early diagnosis can help manage symptoms. By designating an awareness month, the resolution aims to promote public understanding, support research efforts, encourage advocacy, and provide social and emotional support for individuals and families affected by this challenging condition. Additionally, the resolution requests that the Governor issue an annual proclamation to recognize the month and encourage relevant state agencies, organizations, and citizens to participate in awareness activities and programs.
Committee Categories
Health and Social Services
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Reported from Senate Committee, 2nd Reading (on 05/19/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/SJR148 |
| Analysis - Statement SHH 5/19/25 | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/SJR/148_S1.PDF |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/SJR/148_I1.HTM |
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