ASSEMBLY HEALTH COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY JOINT RESOLUTION No. 62

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  SEPTEMBER 23, 2024

      The Assembly Health Committee reports favorably Assembly Joint Resolution No. 62.

      This joint resolution designates the first week of May as “Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week” in New Jersey to raise public awareness of mental health and mental illness in children. 

      Mental illness can adversely affect children in many ways, including increasing the likelihood of a child being suspended from school, abusing drugs or alcohol, or ending up in the juvenile justice system.  Many children with mental health disorders do not receive treatment for their illnesses, due to poor understanding of mental illness and treatment options, stigma, or lack of access to treatment.

      This bill was pre-filed for introduction in the 2024-2025 session pending technical review.  As reported, the bill includes the changes required by technical review, which has been performed.