Bill Text: NJ AJR78 | 2018-2019 | Regular Session | Amended

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Bill Title: Designates second full week in September as "Direct Support Professional Recognition Week." *

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 4-0)

Status: (Engrossed - Dead) 2018-09-27 - Received in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee [AJR78 Detail]

Download: New_Jersey-2018-AJR78-Amended.html

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[First Reprint]

ASSEMBLY JOINT RESOLUTION

No. 78

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

218th LEGISLATURE

 

INTRODUCED FEBRUARY 12, 2018

 

 

Sponsored by:

Assemblyman  ADAM J. TALIAFERRO

District 3 (Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem)

Assemblywoman  JOANN DOWNEY

District 11 (Monmouth)

 

 

 

 

SYNOPSIS

     Designates second full week in September as "Direct Support Professional Recognition Week."

 

CURRENT VERSION OF TEXT

     As reported by the Assembly Human Services Committee on September 17, 2018, with amendments.

  

A Joint Resolution designating the ¹[third] second¹ full week in September of each year as "Direct Support Professional Recognition Week."

 

Whereas, Direct support professionals, direct care workers, personal assistants, personal attendants, in-home support workers, and paraprofessionals are the primary providers of publicly funded long-term support and services for millions of individuals with disabilities; and

Whereas, Direct support professionals provide a broad range of support to individuals with disabilities, including: preparation of meals; helping with medications; assisting with bathing, dressing, and other aspects of daily living; assisting individuals with physical disabilities in accessing their environment; providing transportation to school, work, religious and recreational activities; and helping with general daily affairs, such as assisting with financial matters, medical appointments, and personal interests; and

Whereas, Individuals with disabilities are supported by these professionals in making choices that lead to meaningful, productive lives and these professionals are integral in helping individuals with disabilities live within their communities amongst friends and family, avoiding more costly institutional care; and

Whereas, Many direct support professionals, who are hardworking and taxpaying citizens, are the primary financial providers for their own families; however, many direct support professionals continue to earn low wages, receive inadequate benefits, and have limited opportunities for advancement, resulting in high turnover and vacancy rates; and

Whereas, Despite a documented critical and increasing shortage of direct support professionals throughout the United States, direct support professionals remain committed and dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities improve their lives and utilize the benefits of the Americans with Disabilities Act; and

Whereas, Residents of the State of New Jersey recognize the importance of direct support professionals and the services they provide to individuals with disabilities; and

Whereas, It is altogether fitting and proper to recognize the value and accomplishments of direct support professionals as well as their integral role in assisting individuals with disabilities; now, therefore,

 

     Be It Resolved by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:

     1.    The ¹[third] second¹ full week in September of each year is designated as "Direct Support Professional Recognition Week" to commend all direct support professionals in New Jersey for their tireless efforts and services to individuals with disabilities.

 

     2.    The Governor may issue a proclamation calling upon public officials and the citizens of this State to observe "Direct Support Professional Recognition Week" with appropriate activities and programs.

 

     3.    This joint resolution shall take effect immediately.