The Senate Budget Committee in New Jersey has advanced two bipartisan bills sponsored by Senator Kristin Corrado (R-40). These bills aim to expand support services for students and improve awareness and prevention of eating disorders throughout the state.
Senator Corrado highlighted the need for early intervention, stating, “Kids today are not just exposed to unhealthy and often unrealistic body standards, they’re immersed in them nearly every day. As students form their sense of self, constant comparisons to unrealistic expectations quietly distort how many see their own bodies, laying the groundwork for unhealthy habits. That’s why it is important that we invest in children’s health early, before those pressures take hold and create lifelong struggles.”
The proposed legislation includes S-3329, which would create the “Disordered Eating Prevention Research Grant Pilot Program.” This program directs the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, along with the Department of Health, to conduct a statewide study focused on understanding the causes of eating disorders as well as methods for prevention and reduction. The goal is to improve both public awareness and healthcare outcomes related to these conditions.
Another bill, S-3862, seeks to expand the scope of the current NJ Statewide Student Support Services program. At present, this program operates through 15 regional hubs across New Jersey and provides supplemental mental-health services addressing bullying, suicide, substance abuse, and teen pregnancy among K-12 students. Under S-3862, these services would be broadened to include eating disorder awareness initiatives along with prevention programs, counseling options, and referral resources.
Senator Anthony M. Bucco serves as a member of both the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee—where these bills were considered—and holds positions such as Senate Republican Leader while representing communities like Bernardsville Borough, Boonton Town and Denville Township according to his official website. He also participates in sponsoring legislation and committee work on key state issues (source).
Full texts of bills S-3329 and S-3862 are available online.