This bill mandates the Division of Aging Services within the Department of Human Services to create and maintain a voluntary central registry for senior citizens in New Jersey. The registry aims to compile statistical data on the senior population and facilitate wellness check calls during emergencies, as well as provide information on available services and programs. Individuals aged 65 and older can apply for inclusion in the registry by providing personal information such as their name, date of birth, address, income level, and contact details. The division will also receive death notifications from the New Jersey Electronic Death Registration System to keep the registry updated.
Additionally, the bill ensures that the information collected in the registry remains confidential and is not disclosed publicly, except as required by law. Registered individuals can request the removal of their information, which will be processed after a 21-day waiting period, during which all associated records will be destroyed. To promote awareness of the registry, the division will conduct a statewide public awareness campaign in both English and Spanish targeting individuals aged 64 and older. The Commissioner of Human Services is tasked with adopting necessary regulations to implement the provisions of this act, which will take effect 90 days after enactment.