Designates November 7 of each year as "Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day" in NJ.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Al Barlas and 19 co-sponsors

Designates November 7 each year as Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day in New Jersey to promote awareness, education, and outreach about SDS.

Passed Senate (Passed Both Houses) (40-0)

Summary of AJR 119 (Session 222) – New Jersey

Purpose and Intent

AJR 119 designates a specific day—November 7 of each year—as “Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day” in the state of New Jersey.

The resolution is symbolic, aimed at raising public awareness of Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome (SDS), which is a rare genetic disorder.

Key Provisions

Declares November 7 annually as Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day in New Jersey.

Serves as a formal designation within the state to recognize SDS and promote awareness, education, and outreach related to the condition.

As introduced, the measure is a non-binding resolution; it does not create new rights, duties, or appropriations, but rather designates a day of awareness.

Persons and Entities Affected

General public in New Jersey, with a focus on individuals and families affected by Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome, healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and state agencies involved in public health awareness.

State government and the Legislature, which would coordinate, communicate, or promote activities or observances tied to the designated day (e.g., proclamations, educational initiatives, partnerships with SDS advocacy groups).

Procedural and Timeline Details

Status: Introduced and referred to the Assembly Health Committee (as of the latest action, 2026-02-19).

Legislative path: As a concurrent or joint-resolution-type measure, it would typically progress through committee and floor votes in the New Jersey Legislature and, if adopted, would be presented to the Governor for signature or veto. Since AJR 119 is an Assembly Joint Resolution (AJR), it designates the day but does not require funding.

No specific implementation mechanics or funding provisions are included in the text provided. If enacted, the designation would likely be observed by state agencies and organizations through proclamation, awareness campaigns, and partnerships during November 7 each year.

Additional Context

The bill is sponsored by Assemblywoman Linda Carter and Assemblyman James J. Kennedy, with additional co-sponsors from various members across committees and districts.

The measure emphasizes awareness rather than policy changes, clinical guidelines, or funding allocations.

Potential Impact

Raises visibility of Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome in New Jersey, potentially encouraging educational activities, clinical awareness, and patient support initiatives.

May foster collaboration with SDS advocacy groups, healthcare professionals, and schools or community organizations during the designated day.

Could lead to increased public knowledge about SDS symptoms, diagnosis, and available resources, though it does not, by itself, fund or mandate specific programs.