MINEOLA, NY – Nassau County Executive Laura Curran joined Legislator Josh Lafazan, members of the Nassau County Police Department and the Mill Neck Manor House to sign important legislation which will greatly assist Nassau County Police Officers when communicating with individuals with hearing impairments.
“The safety and well-being of every resident in Nassau County will always remain our top priority,” said Nassau County Executive Laura Curran.
In July 2018, Legislator Lafazan introduced legislation, which would direct the Nassau County Police Department to produce information cards for motorists who are hearing impaired. The information cards assist in situations when an officer is not proficient in the use of American Sign Language.
The information cards can be used quickly during an emergency and can be easily stored on a car visor. The cards will be distributed to every NYS Department of Motor Vehicle location within Nassau County as well as every police precinct, policing center, and community center.
The visor card will include the following information:
- Boldface and highlighted text at the top of the card indicating that the individual is hearing impaired.
- Symbols and pictures that can be used to communicate between the police officer and the individual.
- A list of the best ways to communicate—American Sign Language interpreter, text messaging, writing, lip reading, hand gestures, an assistive listening device.
- Descriptions of motor vehicle and traffic offenses that the NCPD determines are the most common but not limited to—an expired license, not wearing seat belt, reckless driving, failure to stop at a stop sign, and speeding.
- Symbols to indicate if the person is being—warned, ticketed, or arrested.
- Symbols for the individual to indicate assistance is required, including but not limited to, driving directions, medical emergency, police assistance, nearest gas station, flat sire, nearest hospital, and tow truck assistance.
- Symbols for the police officer to request license registration, proof of insurance, or a weapons permit.
- Contact information for Nassau County resources for individuals who are hearing impaired.
