Designates August of each year as Radon Awareness Month; designates August 2 of each year as Radon Action Day.
Impact
The resolution acknowledges the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's findings, which indicate that much of the state has a moderate to high risk of radon exposure. By promoting regular testing of homes for radon levels, the resolution aims to encourage homeowners to take proactive measures against this significant health hazard. It emphasizes the importance of testing every two years, especially during property transactions or after any structural changes to the home.
Summary
AJR179 is a joint resolution that designates August of each year as 'Radon Awareness Month' and August 2 of each year as 'Radon Action Day' in the State of New Jersey. The intent of the resolution is to educate the public about the dangers of radon, an invisible, odorless radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes and is a known carcinogen. It is highlighted that radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer, resulting in over 21,000 deaths annually in the United States.
Contention
While AJR179 has a strong focus on raising awareness and promoting public health initiatives, there may be critiques regarding the effectiveness of awareness campaigns in instigating actual behavioral changes. Some stakeholders might argue that simply designating awareness months and days may not be sufficient to drive substantial action on radon testing and remediation among homeowners, particularly in areas where radon levels are known to be low risk.
Final_note
The resolution underlines the urgency for public awareness, remediation measures, and the role of certified professionals in mitigating radon exposure, reinforcing New Jersey's commitment to protecting its residents' health from the long-term risks associated with elevated radon levels.