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)
Assemblyman ERIC HOUGHTALING
District 11 (Monmouth)
Co-Sponsored by:
Assemblyman Benson
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.