SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford pushed for a protocol that will give drivers with autism and other intellectual disabilities the ability to clearly define their disability on their license – leading to safer traffic stops and interactions with law enforcement.
“A routine traffic stop is stressful for anyone – but for a driver with autism or another condition that affects how they process social cues and respond to commands, it can quickly escalate into a crisis,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). "Both the driver and officer deserve tools to prevent that escalation.”
Under Senate Bill 2524, if an individual presents documentation from a doctor stating they have an intellectual disability while applying for – or renewing – a driver’s license, they will be able to have a designation put on their ID card.
While people with autism may be able to manage their communication differences or behavioral challenges with supports at school, work or in their daily lives, they may experience unique challenges when interacting with police. Without a designation that someone may have an intellectual disability, law enforcement may interpret their behavior as being noncompliant with questioning or instructions. This has caused interactions between law enforcement and individuals with autism to escalate quickly, resulting in unnecessary use of force, trauma or death.
“When someone avoids eye contact or doesn't respond during a traffic stop, an officer may interpret that as defiance or impairment,” said Lightford. “But many people with autism, anxiety disorders or other conditions simply don't communicate the way officers are trained to expect. A simple designation on their license can prevent a routine stop from turning into a dangerous misunderstanding – protecting both the driver and the officer.”
Senate Bill 2524 was signed into law Friday.
