New Jersey Assembly Bill AJR204

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/8/22
• Refer: 12/8/22

Caption

Designates Saturday before Thanksgiving Day as "National Adoption Day" and designates November as "National Adoption Month" in New Jersey.

Impact

The resolution positions New Jersey as a state that formally recognizes the importance of adoption and seeks to encourage more families to consider adopting children from foster care. Throughout November, various events and activities are expected to be held across the state to promote adoption awareness and to celebrate the positive outcomes of finalized adoptions, highlighting the need for more families to provide nurturing homes for children in need.

Summary

Assembly Joint Resolution No. 204 designates the Saturday before Thanksgiving Day as 'National Adoption Day' and the month of November as 'National Adoption Month' in New Jersey. The resolution aims to enhance public awareness regarding adoption services and to celebrate families who finalize adoptions. This initiative is particularly relevant given the significant number of children in foster care—approximately 400,000 in the U.S., with about 6,000 in New Jersey—many of whom face emotional and psychological challenges as they await permanent homes.

Contention

While the resolution primarily aims to raise awareness and celebrate adoption, some may argue that the focus should also extend to providing more robust support systems for children currently in care. Concerns have been raised about the emotional and financial resources available to these children, especially those aging out of the system without adequate family support. Advocates within the adoption and foster care sectors may call for additional measures that address the complexities faced by children in foster care, beyond merely designating a day for celebration.