New Jersey Senate Bill S906

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires MVC to allow person to indicate special needs with motor vehicle registration.

Impact

One of the main impacts of S906 is to enhance communication during vehicle stops by ensuring that law enforcement officials have the necessary information to assist individuals with special needs. The bill stipulates that the designated information shall be accessible only to selected employees of the Motor Vehicle Commission and law enforcement, and it specifies the contexts in which such information can be used—namely, to aid in identifying and facilitating communication with the individuals in a sensitive manner. Furthermore, it protects the confidentiality of the information submitted, ensuring it is not categorized as a government record and is safeguarded against unauthorized access.

Summary

Senate Bill S906 proposes to amend the motor vehicle registration process in New Jersey by allowing individuals to voluntarily indicate if they or an immediate family member have special needs. The bill clearly defines 'special needs' as a physical, mental, or developmental disability that significantly limits one or more major life activities. This designation can be made during the initial vehicle registration, upon renewal, or at any other time through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission’s website, thus aiming to provide a streamlined process for individuals to make their needs known.

Contention

While the bill's intent has generally been welcomed as a beneficial modification to the existing motor vehicle laws, discussions surrounding it may highlight potential concerns regarding privacy and the treatment of individuals with special needs during interactions with law enforcement. Advocates for individuals with disabilities may raise questions regarding how effectively the information will be communicated to officers and what training will be provided to ensure that law enforcement personnel adequately respond to such designations. Additionally, there may be a need for ongoing dialogue about maintaining the dignity and rights of individuals with special needs in operational contexts.