NEW JERSEY – New Jersey drivers may soon be able to register in-person for the Motor Vehicle Commission’s Next-of-Kin Registry thanks to legislation sponsored by Senator Kristin Corrado and approved this week by the Senate Transportation Committee.
“Although New Jersey residents have been able to sign-up for the Next-of-Kin Registry for several years, registration for the emergency contacts program is only possible via the MVC’s website or by mail—in-person registry is currently not an option,” said Corrado (R-40). “This bill, which will allow residents to add emergency contacts in person at MVC agencies, will improve the effectiveness of the Next-of-Kin Registry and allow law enforcement to more easily reach family members for individuals involved in serious vehicle accidents.”
The Next-of-Kin Registry is a New Jersey statewide web-based system that allows individuals 14 years of age and older to voluntarily submit and maintain emergency contact information through the MVC.
Corrado’s legislation, S-2666, would require the MVC to allow drivers to submit information in person at commission agencies.
The Next-of-Kin Registry was established in response to “Sara’s Law,” which was created in memory of Sara Elizabeth Dubinin from Sayreville. Miss Dubinin became unresponsive following a motor vehicle crash in September 2007 and lapsed into a coma before her parents could be notified. She eventually passed away. The law sought to ensure that an emergency contact could be notified immediately in the event of a vehicle crash.
“This legislation will not only improve the effectiveness of the Next-of-Kin registry, but it will also play a critical role in raising public awareness about its benefits to families and law enforcement,” Corrado said. “No parent or immediate family member should ever have to wait hours or days to be notified about a loved one involved in a serious vehicle accident.”
