New Jersey Assembly Bill AJR139

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Designates the month of June of every year, "Dry Drowning Awareness Month."

Impact

If approved, AJR139 would not amend existing laws directly but would serve as a significant public health initiative. The resolution calls for the Governor to issue a proclamation each year recognizing 'Dry Drowning Awareness Month' and urges public officials and communities to engage in appropriate awareness programs and activities. Its implementation could lead to increased education around water safety, potentially decreasing incidents of dry drowning, especially during the summer months when swimming activities are prevalent.

Summary

AJR139 is a Joint Resolution introduced in New Jersey that designates June of each year as 'Dry Drowning Awareness Month.' The purpose of this resolution is to inform and educate the public about the hazards associated with dry drowning and secondary drowning, which are rare but potentially fatal conditions that can occur after water submersion. The resolution aims to promote awareness about the symptoms and prevention measures related to these submersion injuries, particularly emphasizing that young children are often at risk.

Contention

While the resolution is relatively straightforward, some debate may arise around the allocation of resources for awareness campaigns versus actual preventive measures at swimming venues. Concerns from stakeholders might involve the effectiveness of public awareness in genuinely preventing such incidents compared to hands-on safety training and stricter regulations at public pools and aquatic centers. Thus, while there may not be significant opposition to the concept of raising awareness, discussions could focus on the best methods to achieve the intended safety outcomes.