Designates first full week of May of each year as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week" in NJ.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Herb Conaway and 1 co-sponsor

Designates the first full week of May as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week in New Jersey to boost awareness, early screening, and education about TD.

Approved P.L.2025, JR-2.

#commemoratio #develdisab

AJR 120 — Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week in New Jersey (Summary)

Purpose

AJR 120 designates the first full week of May each year as “Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week” in New Jersey. The resolution aims to raise public awareness about tardive dyskinesia (TD), its causes, the importance of early screening and diagnosis, and the availability of treatment options. It encourages preventative steps and ongoing monitoring for TD among individuals treated with dopamine receptor blocking agents (DRBAs).

Key Provisions

Designation: The first full week of May is designated as “Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week” in New Jersey.

Governor’s Proclamation: The Governor is respectfully requested to issue an annual proclamation recognizing the designated week.

Effective Date: The resolution takes effect immediately.

Statutory References: Codifies the designation in New Jersey statutes (C.36:2-472 and C.36:2-473) through a joint resolution.

What Is TD and Why It Matters (Background in the File)

TD is a persistent, potentially irreversible neurological condition characterized by involuntary movements of the face, torso, and other body parts.

It is associated with long-term use of dopamine-receptor blocking medications (DRBAs), which are used to treat various mental health conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression) and some gastrointestinal disorders.

TD can often be treated effectively if detected early; however, many cases remain undiagnosed.

Public awareness and provider education are highlighted as essential to promote early screening and treatment.

Who/What Is Affected

Indirectly, NJ residents with mental health conditions who are treated with DRBAs, and others who may be exposed to DRBAs.

Health care providers, patients, caregivers, and the general public who benefit from increased awareness and timely screening.

State agencies and the Governor’s Office, through the annual proclamation process.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Introduced: February 5, 2024.

Assembly: Passed March 18, 2024 (77-0-0).

Senate: Reported out of Senate Health Committee December 19, 2024; substituted for SJR 110 on January 14, 2025; Senate passed (35-0).

Final Action: Approved as P.L. 2025, JR-2 on March 6, 2025, completing the joint resolution process.

Related Legislation

Companion bill: SJR 110. Both resolutions designate TD Awareness Week and request a yearly gubernatorial proclamation.

Impact and Considerations

This is a symbolic, ceremonial measure, with no direct funding or new program creation.

It formalizes a public awareness initiative that could bolster education, early screening efforts, and destigmatization related to TD.

The effectiveness depends on annual gubernatorial proclamations and accompanying public health messaging.