Bill Text: NJ SJR27 | 2016-2017 | Regular Session | Amended

---

Bill Title: Designates "Crossing Guard Appreciation Day" in New Jersey.

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 2-0)

Status: (Engrossed - Dead) 2017-03-16 - Received in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Education Committee [SJR27 Detail]

Download: New_Jersey-2016-SJR27-Amended.html

---

[First Reprint]

SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION

No. 27

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

217th LEGISLATURE

INTRODUCED FEBRUARY 8, 2016

 

 

Sponsored by:

Senator  LORETTA WEINBERG

District 37 (Bergen)

Senator  FRED H. MADDEN, JR.

District 4 (Camden and Gloucester)

 

 

 

 

SYNOPSIS

     Designates "Crossing Guard Appreciation Day" in New Jersey.

 

CURRENT VERSION OF TEXT

     As reported by the Law and Public Safety Committee on February 6, 2017, with amendments.

 

A Joint Resolution designating "Crossing Guard Appreciation Day" in New Jersey as the day on which International Walk to School Day occurs annually in October.

 

Whereas, Crossing guards work to ensure the safety and welfare of students of all ages as they travel to and from school ¹[,]¹ by directing traffic and signaling the safe crossing of dangerous streets, intersections, or railroad crossings, and educating students and others about school safety policies and enforcement procedures; and

Whereas, Crossing guards must be able to communicate clearly and exercise good judgment as they are called upon to intervene in potential emergencies, and are charged with monitoring students and reporting observations about accidents, fights, or other dangers to facilitate follow-up by appropriate personnel; and

Whereas, State law requires that crossing guards meet certain qualifications, complete classroom instruction and supervised field training, and be provided with an identifying uniform, to include a safety vest; and

Whereas, In carrying out  their duties, crossing guards brave difficult and sometimes dangerous weather conditions and in a state as densely populated as New Jersey ¹,¹ the hazards of  vehicular traffic are particularly significant; and

Whereas, As of May ¹[2010] 2015¹, approximately ¹[5,390] 5,820¹ crossing guards were employed in New Jersey, the ¹[fourth] third¹ highest number in the country; and

Whereas, The number of schools located in pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods in the State is one reason for the State's high concentration of crossing guards, and in recent years increased numbers of students walk or bike to school making crossing guards even more important; and

Whereas, Crossing guards dutifully perform their responsibilities in the service of others while putting themselves at risk for injuries or accidents; and

Whereas, It is fitting and proper that the hard work and dedication of crossing guards in safeguarding our children and communities be formally recognized; now, therefore,

 

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

 

     1.    "Crossing Guard Appreciation Day" in New Jersey shall coincide with the observance of International Walk to School Day occurring annually in the second week of October, to recognize the vital service and contributions of crossing guards to the safety and welfare of the children and communities of this State.

 

     2.    The Governor shall annually issue a proclamation calling upon public officials and citizens of this State to observe "Crossing Guard Appreciation Day" with appropriate activities and programs.

 

     3.    This joint resolution shall take effect immediately.