Designates calendar week that includes September 10th of each year as "Suicide Prevention Week" in NJ.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Kristin Corrado and 1 co-sponsor

Designates the annual week containing September 10th as Suicide Prevention Week in New Jersey to raise awareness and encourage prevention activities.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee

Summary of Bill: SJR 97 (Session 222) – New Jersey

Purpose and intent

SJR 97 designates a specific observance: the calendar week that begins on the Sunday containing September 10th of each year shall be known as “Suicide Prevention Week” in New Jersey.

The resolution aims to raise awareness, education, and action around suicide prevention, reduce stigma, and encourage public officials and residents to engage in activities and programs focused on prevention.

Key provisions

Designation: The calendar week containing September 10th, each year, is officially designated as “Suicide Prevention Week” in New Jersey.

Proclamation: The Governor is respectfully requested to issue an annual proclamation recognizing Suicide Prevention Week and to urge public officials and residents to observe the week with appropriate activities and programs.

Effective date: The resolution takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Who/what is affected

The designation primarily affects state government and the broader New Jersey community by creating a formal annual observance.

It signals support for suicide prevention resources and initiatives within the state, potentially guiding public-facing campaigns, education, and community programs during the designated week.

Context and rationale

The resolution references national and local suicide mortality data (e.g., about 44,965 U.S. deaths in 2016 with 687 in New Jersey) to emphasize the public health impact of suicide.

It emphasizes a multi-faceted approach to prevention, including awareness, education, access to services, training for healthcare providers, and reducing stigma associated with mental health treatment and bereavement.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction and referral: Introduced in the Senate on March 5, 2026, and referred to the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.

Legislative status: Co-sponsored by Kristin Corrado and Angela McKnight.

Timing of observance: Each year, the week starting on the Sunday that includes September 10th will be observed as Suicide Prevention Week if the resolution is enacted.

Proclamation process: Requires a gubernatorial proclamation annually to formalize observation and encourage activities statewide.

Potential impact

Raises public visibility for suicide prevention resources (e.g., hotlines and support programs) and may encourage schools, workplaces, and communities to implement prevention and support activities during the designated week.

Helps reinforce reducing stigma around mental health treatment and bereavement, potentially improving access to services and help-seeking behavior.

Note: The bill is a joint resolution, meaning it designates a commemorative observance and does not mandate new funding or statutory program requirements.