Committee advances bill that would provide assistance to individuals with hearing loss
NEW JERSEY – Individuals who are hearing impaired may soon be able to apply for vehicle identification placards thanks to legislation sponsored by Senator Kristin Corrado and advanced Thursday by the Senate Transportation Committee.
“Over the last several months, I have been contacted by constituents who are hearing impaired that say they have difficulty explaining their condition to law enforcement during vehicle traffic stops,” said Corrado (R-40). “This legislation will help alleviate that issue by allowing people who are deaf or have significant hearing loss to have that designation printed onto a windshield placard. This important information will assist law enforcement officials in identifying, and effectively communicating with, individuals who are hearing impaired during vehicle stops.”
Corrado’s bill, S-1471, permits any person who has been issued a driver’s license with the numerical code designating hearing-impairment to apply to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission for a corresponding windshield placard to use on their vehicle.
The windshield placard will bear the international symbol of the deaf and will be free of charge to applicants.
“The stress of being pulled over or being involved in an accident can make it even more difficult for some individuals to express themselves clearly,” Corrado said. “This bill will increase understanding for police and emergency personnel and help ensure that all parties communicate effectively and reach a peaceful resolution.”
