NJ Drivers With Autism May Get To List Diagnosis On Their License

NEW JERSEY — In New Jersey, nearly one third of teenagers with autism get their driver’s licenses by the age of 21. And according to a group of state lawmakers, a simple move could help make it much easier if they’re ever pulled over by police – and for adults, too.

New Jersey’s Republicans and Democrats agree more often than you might think. And several state lawmakers have found common ground over A2369/S761.

If it becomes law, the legislation would allow people with autism or other communication disorders to voluntarily have their diagnosis noted on a driver’s license or ID card issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.

The diagnosis would be noted under the "restrictions" column on licenses. Police departments in the state would be provided with written guidance on how to effectively communicate with a person who has autism or another communication disorder.

Its primary sponsors in the Assembly include Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, a Republican from District 25, and Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez (District 19) and Assemblyman Thomas Giblin (District 34), both Democratic Party members. The bill is also co-sponsored by Assemblyman Ralph Caputo (District 28), a Democrat.

Dunn noted that more than a dozen other states have enacted similar legislation allowing a driver’s license applicant to request a communication impediment notation.

"Interactions with police officers are stressful for drivers who don't struggle with communication issues," Dunn said. "For those who have autism or disorders involving speech or language, it can be dangerous, because they may not respond appropriately."

"A designation of such a diagnosis on a driver's license would help law enforcement recognize when a person may have trouble communicating and also reduce some anxieties for those drivers and their families," Dunn added.

The bill was reported out of the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee last week. It was referred to the Appropriations Committee.

The New Jersey Senate Transportation Committee has passed a companion version of the bill. That version also includes bipartisan support, with primary sponsors that include Sen. Nellie Pou, a Democrat from the 35th District and Sen. Kristin Corrado, a Republican who represents District 40. Co-sponsors include Sen. Anthony Bucco (District 25) and Sen. Declan O’Scanlon Jr. (District 13), both Republicans.

Send news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Sign up for Patch email newsletters. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site.