SOUTH JERSEY (KYW Newsradio) — New Jersey driver’s licenses and state-issued ID cards could soon include a special marker for individuals who have a communication disability of some sort. The state Senate on Thursday voted to approve bill S-761.
When someone who is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder or cognitive disability gets pulled over by police, the marker would immediately signal to the officer that they are interacting with someone who may not respond in a way that’s expected.
“This is something that’s been on our radar for a while,” Sen. Kristin Corrado said. She notes this would be just another tool to ensure interactions between police and the public go safely and smoothly.
“Education is always a good thing, and when you hear advocates saying this is something we need, it was an easy solution,” she said.
She said the notation on the license or ID card would be immediately identifiable to an officer, just like it is for organ donors. And just like organ donor status, this new designation would be optional and available by request from the Motor Vehicle Commission.
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At least 15 other states including Florida, Colorado, and Michigan already do this. In Florida, for example, the need for special communication consideration is indicated with an additional symbol where veteran and organ donor status is.
In Michigan, a licensed health care professional must certify that the designation is required before it is added to a resident's record, but it is not printed on their driver’s license, ID card or vehicle registration. It can be viewed by law enforcement only when accessing that record during a traffic stop or emergency.
If the New Jersey bill passes the General Assembly and is signed into law, the MVC will determine how to handle the new designation. Some of the ideas discussed include adding a blue border around the edge of the card or another blue symbol, because blue ribbons are sometimes used to signify autism awareness.
No date has been set for the vote in the assembly.