Mercer Times

Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, and Acting Motor Vehicle Commission Chief Administrator Latrecia Littles-Floyd have introduced initiatives to assist law enforcement in interacting with individuals who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or communication disorders. These efforts aim to improve communication and reduce misunderstandings during encounters.

At a press conference held at the Hunterdon County Historic Courthouse, officials announced new guidance for law enforcement to help identify individuals with ASD or communication disorders. They also unveiled a new option for these individuals to indicate their diagnosis on their driver's license or non-driver ID. The event included participation from local law enforcement leaders and representatives from Hunterdon Medical Center and The ARC of Hunterdon.

In 2023, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation allowing New Jersey residents with ASD or communication disorders to request an official indication of their diagnosis on state identification documents through the Motor Vehicle Commission. This law also required Human Services and the Attorney General’s Office to develop related guidance for law enforcement.

"Law enforcement often interact with individuals in stressful circumstances, making clear communication essential," said Human Services Commissioner Adelman. "This guidance provides law enforcement with information and education that can help prevent potential misunderstandings or conflict."

Attorney General Platkin emphasized the importance of the new designation for driver licenses and state IDs: "By helping our law enforcement officers better understand the needs of a civilian, we hope to create a more productive and safer environment."

Acting NJMVC Chief Administrator Littles-Floyd expressed support for this initiative: "We all share a common goal in making our state's roads and communities safer for each resident."

Individuals diagnosed with ASD or a communication disorder can request an update to their license at any NJMVC Licensing Center by providing six points of ID along with an attestation of their diagnosis. No medical documentation is required.

A detailed explanation on how individuals can add this notation is available on the NJMVC website. The marking will appear on the license or ID, accompanied by a Code 5 Description Card indicating if they have ASD, a communication disorder, or both.

The Department of Human Services led the development of this guidance in collaboration with other agencies and advocacy organizations while seeking feedback from people with disabilities.

The guidance outlines legal requirements for accommodations, describes characteristics of ASD and communication disorders, offers best practices for effective interaction between law enforcement and residents, and includes tips for communicating with those who are deaf or visually impaired.

"This effort aims to expand perspectives by redefining what is considered 'typical' versus 'suspicious' behavior," said Deputy Commissioner Kaylee McGuire.

According to CDC data, approximately 3 percent of 8-year-olds in New Jersey have been diagnosed with ASD. Given these statistics, interactions between law enforcement officers and individuals with ASD are common. Communication disorders present persistent challenges in understanding language but are often misunderstood by others as suspicious behavior. Enhancing awareness among officers is crucial for adapting interactions appropriately.