TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Fred Madden (D- Camden/Gloucester) that would extend the work of the New Jersey Epilepsy Task Force for another year and add representation for school nurses was approved unanimously today by the full Senate.

“It’s important that we provide the Task Force enough time to compile the necessary information to provide recommendations on how to improve the screening, diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy,” said Senator Madden. “The recommendations of the task force will be used to educate the public and health care professionals about the symptoms and treatment of epilepsy. This is a treatable disease but knowledge is vital to prevent complications and related health problems.”

The bill (S-2353) would also have the epilepsy task force provide an interim report to the Legislature and the governor in advance of the full report. The report is to include recommendations to address the psychosocial issues faced by persons with epilepsy, such as, depression, stigmatization, and discrimination.

The measure would also add a representative from the New Jersey State School Nurses Association.