New Jersey to Indicate Mental, Communicative Handicaps on State ID’s

By Matis Glenn

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New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed a bill Monday allowing residents to indicate on their state-issued ID’s if they have autism spectrum disorder, or if they have difficulty communicating.

The legislation is intended to ease what supporters say are potentially dangerous misunderstandings  between civilians and law enforcement during traffic stops and interactions.

Non-driver identification cards will also be included in the law.

“The ability to opt into this new notation on a State ID will allow more of our residents to rest easy that they or their loved one can expect greater understanding and accommodations for their unique communication needs during encounters with law enforcement,” said Governor Murphy. “Making it easier for officers to identify situations where a different approach may be necessary and training them on how to adjust their communication tactics accordingly will benefit both law enforcement professionals and the individuals they serve by promoting safer, more productive interactions going forward.”

The bill also requires the New Jersey Commissioner of Human Services and the Attorney General to work together in consultation with the Department of Law and Public Safety and at least one advocacy organization to develop guidance to help law enforcement officers understand how to effectively communicate with people who have these diagnoses.

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