Assembly Bill 798 mandates that the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) inquire about caregiver information during the application process for operator's licenses and identification cards. Specifically, applicants will be asked if they wish to provide the names and contact information for up to three individuals for whom they are the primary caregiver. If provided, this information will be recorded in the applicant's file. Additionally, the DOT is required to establish a method for law enforcement agencies to electronically request and receive this caregiver information, along with any emergency contact information, while ensuring that such information is not disclosed to anyone other than the applicant or authorized law enforcement.
The bill introduces new sections 343.178 and 343.50 (4r) to the statutes, defining "caregiver" and "law enforcement agency" as per existing definitions in other statutes. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining the confidentiality of the caregiver information, allowing access only to the applicant and law enforcement as specified. This initiative aims to enhance the support for caregivers by ensuring that their information is readily available in emergency situations while safeguarding their privacy.