News release: Nontraditional communication registry now available

Michelle Lujan Grisham

Governor

Stephanie Schardin Clarke

Cabinet Secretary

Media Contact: Charlie Moore

Charlie.Moore@tax.nm.gov

(505) 670-5406

July 12, 2024

Nontraditional communication registry now available

Vehicle owners can provide information about drivers, passengers with communication disorders

SANTA FE—Vehicle owners can now register with the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) if they have drivers or regular passengers with communication disorders so that the information can be made available to law enforcement in the event of a traffic stop or other encounter.

The registry was created under the Nontraditional Communication Registry Act, passed as House Bill 40 in the 2023 session of the Legislature. The registry will enable law enforcement officers to determine if the driver or occupants of a vehicle may have difficulty communicating in traditional fashion because of a medical condition or disability.

“We are excited for this new tool, which will improve safety and the overall quality of interactions between law enforcement officers and the public,” said Taxation and Revenue Secretary Stephanie Schardin Clarke.

"This law has been a long time coming, and a dream fulfilled. It will be a great step forward in safety for persons with a disability as well as for law enforcement,” said Rep. Liz Thompson of Albuquerque, who sponsored the legislation. “My hope is that many New Mexicans will use this law to add another layer of protection for loved ones, or themselves."

Vehicle owners can register the information with MVD using MVD form 10126, which is available in the “Vehicle Forms” folder on the Forms page at mvdonline.com.

Conditions that can be reported on the form are autism spectrum disorder, deafness, brain injuries, intellectual disabilities, behavioral health disorders, dementia and seizure disorders. The condition section must be filled out and signed by a licensed health practitioner.

The forms must be returned in person at an MVD field office.

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The Motor Vehicle Division strives to offer customers convenient channels to conduct their business. MVD regularly adds to services offered online and through convenient retail kiosks.

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