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SJR 148

Designates September of each year as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month" in NJ.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Owen Henry

Designates September as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month in New Jersey, prompting an annual Governor's proclamation and statewide awareness efforts.

Reported out of Senate Committee, 2nd Reading
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Bill Summary · SJR 148

Summary: Senate Joint Resolution 148 (SJR 148) — Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month

Overview

SJR 148 is a joint resolution in New Jersey that designates September of each year as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month." The measure is ceremonial in nature and requests the Governor to issue an annual proclamation to recognize the month and encourage related awareness activities.

What the measure would do

  • Designates September every year as “Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month” in New Jersey.
  • Requires the Governor to issue an annual proclamation recognizing September as DMD Awareness Month and to urge relevant state agencies, organizations, and citizens to observe the month with appropriate awareness activities and programs.
  • Takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Key provisions and context

  • The designation emphasizes public awareness of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a progressive, X-linked genetic disease affecting muscle tissue.
  • Background information provided in the bill notes DMD’s typical onset in early childhood, rapid progression, potential for wheelchair dependence in the early teens, and shortened life expectancy (about 25 years on average).
  • The resolution highlights the role of advocacy and nonprofit organizations in New Jersey (e.g., efforts to improve care, access to treatment, and funding for research) and mentions evolving treatments and diagnostics (including genetic testing and potential new therapies) as part of the broader context for awareness efforts.
  • The measure references the value of awareness to foster empathy, community support, and advocacy for better care and access to treatments.

Affected parties

  • New Jersey residents living with DMD and their families.
  • State agencies, healthcare providers, and organizations involved in health, disability, and public awareness programs.
  • The public, through observed awareness activities and events during September each year.

Procedural/timeline aspects

  • Introduced: January 30, 2025.
  • Committee action: Reported favorably by the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee (May 19, 2025).
  • Current status: Senate “2nd Reading” after committee endorsement.
  • Related measure: AJR 219 (companion bill).

Practical impact

  • This is a ceremonial designation with no new funding or mandatory program creation.
  • Aims to elevate visibility of DMD, encourage education, support for affected families, and potential alignment with existing advocacy and outreach efforts during September.

Bottom line

SJR 148 seeks to permanently elevate DMD awareness in New Jersey by designating September as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month and prompting an annual gubernatorial proclamation and statewide observance, thereby supporting advocacy, education, and community support for individuals and families affected by DMD.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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