The resolution designates July of each year as Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month in New Jersey, aiming to raise public awareness about orofacial clefts, which include cleft lip and cleft palate. These birth defects occur when a baby's lip or mouth does not form properly during pregnancy, leading to various challenges such as difficulties with feeding, speaking, and increased susceptibility to ear infections and dental issues. The resolution highlights the prevalence of these conditions, with approximately one in every 1,600 babies born with cleft lip with cleft palate in the U.S., and emphasizes the need for ongoing research to understand their causes, which remain largely unknown.

By establishing this awareness month, the resolution seeks to encourage collaboration among community organizations, medical institutions, research centers, and advocacy groups to enhance outreach efforts and research on cleft palate and lip conditions. It calls for the Governor to issue an annual proclamation recognizing this month and urges public officials and citizens to engage in appropriate activities and programs to support affected individuals and families. Overall, the initiative aims to foster understanding, compassion, and support for those impacted by these conditions while promoting research for better intervention strategies.