FLEMINGTON, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — Officials in New Jersey have new plans in place to improve communication between police and people with autism.
People with autism and communication disorders often struggle to interact with police during traffic stops and other investigations.
A code 5 marker will be added to their licenses to help police modify how they speak with those individuals. They would also carry a pink description card so cops know what type of disability a person has.
Officials from several New Jersey government agencies, including the Motor Vehicle Commission, the Attorney General’s Office and Department of Human Services, introduced the joint effort at a press conference on Friday at the Hunterdon County Historic Courthouse.
DHS Commissioner Sarah Adelman says giving police the knowledge and tools to modify communication helps prevent situations from escalating and leads to better outcomes. “This guidance provides law enforcement with information and education that can help prevent potential misunderstandings or conflict, as well as build trust and understanding,” she said.
Attorney General Matt Platkin says this will create a more productive and safer environment for both police and the people they serve.
“Law enforcement encounters can be stressful for everyone involved,” said Platkin. “The new designation for driver licenses and state IDs offers an additional way for New Jerseyans with communication challenges to express their needs.”
Anyone who would like to have the notation added to their license should visit a licensing center with proper ID. The individual or their guardian can attest to their diagnosis, with no medical documentation required.