Designates September of each year as "Distracted Walking Awareness Month."
Impact
The passage of AJR117 is expected to result in a formalized acknowledgment of distracted walking as a public safety issue. By designating a specific month for awareness activities, the state intends to engage various stakeholders including public officials, community organizations, and businesses to promote educational programs. This initiative could lead to a shift in how distracted walking is perceived, potentially encouraging safer pedestrian behaviors across the community.
Summary
AJR117 is a joint resolution that seeks to designate September of each year as "Distracted Walking Awareness Month" in New Jersey. Introduced by Assemblywoman Gabriela M. Mosquera, the bill aims to promote public awareness about the hazards associated with using cellular phones and other portable electronic devices while walking. The resolution emphasizes the widespread use of these devices and their contribution to walking-related accidents, suggesting that raising awareness could potentially save lives.
Contention
While the resolution itself does not create regulatory changes, it serves as a platform for discussing distracted walking's implications on public safety. The recognition of Distracted Walking Awareness Month addresses a growing concern regarding the adverse effects of technology on pedestrian safety, potentially leading to legislative support for further measures to mitigate these risks. Notable points of contention may revolve around the effectiveness of awareness campaigns and the balance between personal responsibility and public safety regulations. As technology use continues to rise, the dialogue surrounding distracted walking and its prevention is likely to become more prominent.
Designates month of September each year as "Deaf Awareness Month" in New Jersey; designates last full week of September each year as "Deaf Awareness Week" in New Jersey.
Recognizing April 2026 as "Distracted Driving Awareness Month" and promoting efforts to help prevent tragic and preventable crashes, deaths, and injuries caused by distracted driving.