Designates October 18 of each year as "Postmenopause Day" in New Jersey.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tennille McCoy and 3 co-sponsors

Designates Oct 18 as Postmenopause Day in New Jersey to raise awareness of symptoms, risks, and care options; governor proclaims annually, encouraging health screenings.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Community Development and Women's Affairs Committee

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AJR 124 — Postmenopause Day designation in New Jersey

Overview

AJR 124 is a joint resolution introduced in the New Jersey Assembly on February 8, 2024. The measure designates October 18 of each year as “Postmenopause Day” in New Jersey. It has been referred to the Assembly Committee on Community Development and Women’s Affairs and has a companion in the Senate, SJR 86.

Purpose

To raise awareness about the period after menopause (postmenopause), including symptoms, health risks, and disease management options for women experiencing postmenopause.

To align New Jersey with broader international efforts recognizing menopause-related health awareness.

Background and context

Postmenopause begins after a woman’s menstrual periods have ceased for 12 consecutive months.

Typical onset of natural postmenopause is in the late 40s to early 60s, with an average age around 51.

Hormonal changes affecting estrogen and progesterone, along with factors such as lifestyle, stress, surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, can influence postmenopause.

Some postmenopausal women continue to experience symptoms similar to those during menopause and perimenopause.

Health considerations include increased risks for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and urinary tract infections. Early awareness can support timely healthcare.

Bone density screening is highlighted as an important tool for assessing osteoporosis risk.

Key provisions

1) Designation of October 18 each year as “Postmenopause Day” in New Jersey to raise awareness of postmenopause, its symptoms, health risks, and disease-management options.
2) The Governor may annually issue a proclamation recognizing Postmenopause Day and call upon public officials and residents to observe the day with appropriate activities and programs.
3) The joint resolution takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Affected parties

Postmenopausal women and those experiencing or approaching menopause-related changes.

Public officials and general residents of New Jersey, who may observe the day through activities and programs.

Stakeholders in women’s health awareness and preventive care (e.g., healthcare providers, advocacy groups).

Procedural and timeline details

Introduced in the Assembly on February 8, 2024.

Referred to the Assembly Committee on Community Development and Women’s Affairs.

Related/Senate companion: SJR 86.

Potential impact

A symbolic, annual observance intended to raise public awareness about postmenopause and associated health risks.

Encourages consideration of health screenings (e.g., bone density tests) and timely healthcare, without creating new funding or regulatory requirements.

Provides a gubernatorial proclamation channel to promote observance each year.