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NJ S4776

NJ S4776
Prohibits certain disclosures of autism-related data by State agencies without consent.


summary

Introduced
10/27/2025
In Committee
10/27/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill prohibits certain disclosures of autism-related data by State agencies without consent. Under the bill, State agencies, departments, or political subdivisions are prohibited from disclosing personally identifiable autism-related data to any entity outside the State unless: the individual or the individual's legal guardian provides informed, written consent for a specific use; required by court order or subpoena from a court of competent jurisdiction; required to provide educational, medical, employment, housing, or other essential services and supports to an autistic individual; or required to comply with State or federal law. All disclosures shall be limited to the minimum amount of information necessary to comply with the applicable legal requirements and State and federal privacy laws, and should be anonymized where allowed and practicable. The bill defines "autism-related data" to mean personally identifiable information maintained by a State agency that reveals an individual has been identified as autistic. The bill defines "informed consent" to mean voluntary, written authorization given by an individual, or the individual's legal guardian, after being clearly informed of the nature, scope, purpose, risks, and potential consequences of the data collection or disclosure.

AI Summary

This bill prohibits state agencies in New Jersey from disclosing personally identifiable autism-related data to entities outside the state without specific consent or legal requirements. The bill allows such disclosures only under four circumstances: when the individual or their legal guardian provides informed written consent for a specific use, when required by a court order or subpoena, when necessary to provide essential services like education, medical care, employment, or housing to an autistic individual, or when required by state or federal law. Any data disclosure must be limited to the minimum information necessary, comply with privacy laws, and be anonymized when possible. The bill defines "autism-related data" as personally identifiable information revealing an individual's autism diagnosis, and "informed consent" as a voluntary, written authorization given after the individual or their guardian is fully informed about the data's nature, scope, purpose, risks, and potential consequences. The legislation aims to protect the privacy of individuals with autism by ensuring their sensitive information is not shared without proper safeguards or justification.

Committee Categories

Health and Social Services

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee (on 10/27/2025)

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