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NJ AJR40
NJ AJR40Designates September of each year as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month" in NJ.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 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, aiming to increase public understanding of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a fatal genetic disease that causes progressive muscle loss primarily in young males, often leading to wheelchair dependence, breathing difficulties, and a shortened lifespan. The resolution highlights that while there is no cure, advancements in treatment and early diagnosis can significantly improve quality of life and life expectancy, and emphasizes the importance of awareness for fostering empathy, community, and support for affected families, with the Governor encouraged to issue annual proclamations and call for appropriate awareness activities.
Committee Categories
Health and Social Services
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Health Committee (on 01/13/2026)
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/2026/AJR40 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/AJR/40_I1.HTM |
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