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SJR 169

Memorials, Recognition - Mariah Canfield, Jefferson County High School Art Student of the Week -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jessie Seal

Designates November 13 as the Day of Civility in New Jersey and requires annual gubernatorial proclamations to promote civility through statewide education and activities.

Signed by Governor.
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · SJR 169

Summary: Senate Joint Resolution No. 169 (SJR 169) – Day of Civility in New Jersey

What the bill does

  • Designates November 13 of each year as “Day of Civility” in New Jersey, to align with World Kindness Day.
  • Requires the Governor to issue an annual proclamation recognizing the day and to urge public officials and New Jersey residents to observe with educational programs and activities aimed at fostering civility.
  • Takes effect immediately.

Purpose and intent

  • The resolution aims to address perceived declines in civility in American political and social discourse.
  • It frames civility (courtesy and politeness) as a value that can improve social relations and governing effectiveness.
  • Acknowledges widespread concerns about incivility and its perceived consequences, and links observance of a civility day to broader goals of national pride and reduced tension.

Key provisions

  • Designation: November 13 each year designated as the Day of Civility in New Jersey.
  • Proclamation: The Governor is requested to issue a yearly proclamation recognizing the day and encouraging observance through education and public activities designed to promote civility.
  • Effective date: The joint resolution takes effect immediately.

Who/what is affected

  • The designation targets all residents and public officials in New Jersey, encouraging statewide observance.
  • Encourages schools, community organizations, businesses, and government entities to participate in civility-promoting activities.

Procedural and timeline details

  • Introduced: November 6, 2025.
  • Status: Reported favorably by the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee; designated for 2nd Reading as of November 10, 2025.
  • Legislative action history notes a companion bill: AJR 235.

Context and background (as stated in the bill)

  • Cites research and commentary on civility from studies by KRC Research, Weber Shandwick, and Powell Tate.
  • Cites survey findings such as: a large majority view incivility as a problem, many blaming politicians, and strong belief that civility benefits societal functioning.
  • Connects the observance to World Kindness Day, which has been observed on November 13 since 1998.

Potential impact

  • Primarily ceremonial and educational in nature, with symbolic significance intended to promote civility rather than create regulatory mandates or funding.
  • Could encourage school and community programs focused on respectful discourse, conflict resolution, and positive public engagement.

Related legislation

  • Companion bill: AJR 235 (assembly counterpart).

Note: This summary reflects the bill’s text and stated rationale. It designates a commemorative day and encourages observance through proclamations and educational activities without specific enforcement or funding provisions.

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

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