TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Richard J. Codey (D-Essex, Morris) that calls for the creation of a “Yellow Dot Program” that would assist motorists and emergency responders at the scene of motor vehicle accidents has cleared the Assembly Transportation, Public Works and Independent Authorities Committee.
“When an accident occurs, victims may not have the ability to inform emergency care workers of any medical conditions they have,” said Codey. “The sticker would let emergency responders know where to check for information that could be vital to people’s health, even survival, while saving considerable time. Despite Governor Christie’s misconceptions about this life saving program, it is up to the individual to opt in for a nominal fee.”
The bipartisan sponsored legislation, S-71, would give motorists of any age the option of placing a yellow sticker on their vehicles in order to notify emergency responders that critical health information is available in the glove compartment in case the driver is unable to communicate during an emergency. Information would include such things as medical conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, high or low blood pressure, allergies, and heart conditions, as well as any medications, hospital and doctor preferences and emergency contact information.
The bill passed the Senate in March by a vote of 39-0. It now heads to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for further consideration.