This bill mandates that each county in New Jersey establish a procedure for residents to voluntarily request, obtain, and update a medical identification card. The cards will be designed and formatted according to specifications set by the Commissioner of Health and will include a photo of the cardholder along with any health or medical information the cardholder chooses to provide. This information may encompass details such as blood type, current medications, allergies, medical devices, and contact information for healthcare providers. Importantly, the bill clarifies that obtaining a medical identification card is not mandatory, and residents are not required to disclose specific health information when requesting a card.

Additionally, counties may charge a fee for the issuance of these cards, limited to the actual cost incurred by the county. The bill also provides legal protections, ensuring that individuals involved in the issuance or use of the cards are not subject to civil or criminal liability if they act in good faith. Confidentiality of the information provided is emphasized, with penalties established for unauthorized use or disclosure of this information, classified as a crime of the fourth degree. Furthermore, theft of a medical identification card is designated as a crime of the third degree, carrying more severe penalties.