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

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Jon Bramnick and 2 co-sponsors

Designates November 7 as Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day to heighten visibility, education, and support for SDS in New Jersey.

Reported from Senate Committee, 2nd Reading

Summary of Bill: SJR 143 (NJ Session 222)

Purpose and intent

SJR 143 designates a recurring statewide observance in New Jersey: November 7 of each year as “Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day.”

The resolution seeks to recognize and raise awareness of Shwachman Diamond Syndrome (SDS), a rare congenital disorder, and to acknowledge the importance of education, advocacy, and support for individuals affected by SDS and related research.

Key provisions

Official designation: Each November 7 is designated in New Jersey as Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day.

Scope of recognition: The designation is a symbolic, non-binding statement intended to promote awareness, understanding, and visibility of SDS within the state.

Coordinating entities (implicit/expected): While the bill designates the day, it may prompt state agencies, schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to observe or acknowledge the day through public awareness efforts, events, or disseminating information. The measure itself does not appear to authorize spending or create new programs, but may encourage related activities.

Who would be affected

Individuals with Shwachman Diamond Syndrome and their families by providing heightened visibility and awareness.

The general public in New Jersey, through education and outreach initiatives and potential alignment of events with relevant health care and advocacy organizations.

State institutions (e.g., schools, health departments, and public agencies) that might recognize or participate in awareness activities on November 7 each year.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction and referral: The bill was introduced in the New Jersey Senate and referred to the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee on May 14, 2026.

Status: Pending in committee as of the latest action; no fiscal impact or implementing regulations are specified in the summary.

Legislative posture: As a Joint Resolution (SJR), the measure would designate a commemorative day and does not itself create new state programs or appropriations unless subsequent actions or resolutions are adopted.

Additional notes

Co-sponsors: Jon Bramnick, Nick Scutari, and Vince Polistina support the measure, indicating bipartisan backing.

Fiscal impact: The summary does not indicate any new funding; the designation is largely symbolic, aimed at awareness rather than program creation.

Practical effect: Schools and public agencies may choose to acknowledge the day through awareness campaigns, proclamations, or events, aligned with SDS advocacy organizations and health care providers.

If you’d like, I can add a brief background on Shwachman Diamond Syndrome to provide context for readers unfamiliar with the condition.