This bill allows individuals diagnosed with traumatic or acquired brain injuries to voluntarily indicate this condition on their driver's licenses or identification cards. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) will implement a system where these individuals can make a notation that will be used by law enforcement and emergency medical professionals to facilitate effective communication. The designation will include a restriction code displayed on the license or ID, and individuals can remove this designation at any time. Additionally, the MVC will establish a statewide automated registry that law enforcement can access to identify and communicate with these individuals, storing relevant information such as vehicle registration and emergency contacts.
Furthermore, the bill mandates the development of a training program for law enforcement officers, created by the Superintendent of the Division of State Police in collaboration with the MVC and the Commissioner of Human Services. This program will focus on identifying and effectively communicating with individuals who have brain injuries, including training in de-escalation techniques. The program will be available annually to all county and municipal law enforcement agencies in New Jersey. The bill also includes provisions to protect the confidentiality of the information submitted to the MVC and limits the liability of the MVC and its employees in certain circumstances.