Joint Resolution No. 8 designates May 17 of each year as Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Awareness Day in New Jersey. NEC is a serious intestinal disease that primarily affects premature infants, leading to inflammation and systemic tissue damage. It has a significant impact on infant mortality, being the third leading cause of death in hospitalized infants, and affects one in 1,000 premature infants. The resolution highlights the need for increased public awareness of NEC, as well as the importance of early intervention and support to mitigate its social and financial burdens, which amount to approximately $5.8 billion in hospital expenses annually.

The resolution calls for the Governor of New Jersey to issue an annual proclamation recognizing May 17 as NEC Awareness Day and encourages public officials and citizens to engage in activities and programs that promote awareness of the condition. By aligning with World NEC Awareness Day, the resolution aims to foster education and understanding of NEC, ultimately working towards reducing its prevalence and improving outcomes for affected families in New Jersey.