AJR150

Sponsored by:

Assemblyman BALVIR SINGH

District 7 (Burlington)

Assemblyman CLINTON CALABRESE

District 36 (Bergen and Passaic)

Assemblyman ROBERT J. KARABINCHAK

District 18 (Middlesex)

Co-Sponsored by:

Assemblyman Sampson, Assemblywomen Carter and Reynolds-Jackson

SYNOPSIS

Designates September 21 of each year as “New Jersey Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety Day.”

CURRENT VERSION OF TEXT

As introduced.

A Joint Resolution designating September 21 of each year as “New Jersey Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety Day.”

Whereas, Pedestrian safety is a vital public priority throughout the State, as thousands of students, families, and community members rely on safe and accessible crosswalks and well-maintained walkways each day; and

Whereas, Pedestrian safety in crosswalks requires the shared responsibility of both motorists and pedestrians, and it is imperative that pedestrians remain alert, avoid distractions such as cell phones or headphones, follow the directions of crossing guards, and exercise vigilance when entering or crossing roadways; and

Whereas, Crossing guards serve as dedicated guardians of public safety, ensuring that children and pedestrians can safely travel to and from schools, neighborhoods, and community spaces, and often placing themselves in vulnerable positions in service to others; and

Whereas, Mr. Bruce Morlack, a highly respected and beloved crossing guard in the Burlington City School District, tragically lost his life in the line of duty while protecting students crossing the street; and

Whereas, Mr. Morlack’s heroic actions exemplify the highest standards of courage, selflessness, and dedication to public service, and his memory continues to inspire both his local community and residents across the State; and

Whereas, It is both fitting and meaningful to honor Mr. Morlack on his birthday, September 21st, as a day dedicated to crosswalk safety, education, and community reflection; and

Whereas, By designating September 21 of each year as “New Jersey Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety Day,” the State of New Jersey honors the legacy of Mr. Morlack, while encouraging residents, schools, municipalities, and community organizations to promote awareness, responsibility, and proactive safety measures that protect all who travel on foot; now, therefore,

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

1. September 21 of each year is designated as “New Jersey Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety Day,” in memory of Bruce Morlack and in recognition of the importance of safeguarding pedestrians throughout the State.

2. The Governor is respectfully requested to annually issue a proclamation recognizing September 21 of each year as “New Jersey Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety Day,” and call upon public officials and the citizens of this State to observe the day with appropriate activities and programs.

3. This joint resolution shall take effect immediately.

STATEMENT

This joint resolution designates September 21 of each year as “New Jersey Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety Day.”

Crossing guards serve as dedicated guardians of public safety, ensuring that children and pedestrians can safely travel to and from schools, neighborhoods, and community spaces, and often placing themselves in vulnerable positions in service to others.

Mr. Bruce Morlack, a highly respected and beloved crossing guard in the Burlington City School District, tragically lost his life in the line of duty while protecting students crossing the street. Mr. Morlack’s heroic actions exemplify the highest standards of courage, selflessness, and dedication to public service, and his memory continues to inspire both his local community and residents across the State. It is both fitting and meaningful to honor Mr. Morlack on his birthday, September 21st, as a day dedicated to crosswalk safety, education, and community reflection.

The Governor is respectfully requested to annually issue a proclamation recognizing September 21 of each year as “New Jersey Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety Day” and to call upon public officials and citizens of the State to observe the day with appropriate activities and programs.