Designates May of each year as "Better Hearing and Speech Month."
The resolution emphasizes the substantial economic impact of communication disorders on the United States, estimating costs between $154 billion to $186 billion annually due to lost productivity, special education, and medical treatment. AJR47 serves to inform the public and engage them in awareness activities, ultimately promoting a better understanding of hearing and speech disabilities. Through this recognition, the resolution aims to encourage individuals and communities to participate in related activities and discussions during the designated month.
AJR47 is a Joint Resolution introduced in the New Jersey Legislature that designates May of each year as 'Better Hearing and Speech Month'. The bill is sponsored by Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez and co-sponsored by Assemblywoman McKnight. The intent of this resolution is to raise public awareness of communication disorders, which are significant health issues for many individuals across various age groups. The resolution highlights the necessity of recognizing hearing loss and speech disorders as critical health concerns that can affect socialization and overall quality of life.
While AJR47 is primarily focused on awareness and education, potential points of contention could arise regarding the allocation of resources for advocacy and support programs. The bill invites the Governor to issue an annual proclamation, urging public officials and citizens to observe the month through suitable activities. It raises questions about the effectiveness of such resolutions in generating actionable support for those affected by communication disorders and whether this attention translates to meaningful policy changes or funding allocations to combat the issues outlined in the resolution.