For many people with autism, it can be hard to interact with other people. It can be especially challenging when people with autism encounter law enforcement personnel. People with autism can be slow to respond to questions or commands and may not understand an officer's request. Miscommunication in the face of law enforcement can have unfortunate, and sometimes deadly, consequences. Most police officers have little to no training on how to recognize, communicate with, and respond to individuals with autism while out in the field.
The advocacy group, Autism Speaks, encourages people with autism to bring cards or handouts to present to law enforcement and security personnel. But Texas has now made it easier for individuals to advise the police of possible communication challenges. In 2017, the Texas legislature passed a measure that would encourage people with autism to utilize the state’s “communication impediment code” to help alleviate any issues in communicating with law enforcement. What is a Communication Impediment Code? A communication impediment code is a notice placed on a driver's license or identification card that should notify law enforcement looking at the license that the person has a health condition that may impede their ability to communicate. The code is printed on the back of the license where it would not be evident to most people glancing at the license. To qualify for the communication impediment code, an individual must complete a Physician's Statement Form and submit it with their driver's license or ID card application. Registration for the code is entirely optional, so those worried about possible stigma do not have to apply. The communication impediment code, in conjunction with new police officer training initiatives, should provide some protection to people with autism in their interactions with law enforcement. Initiatives in Other States Texas's plan is not unique, and other states have taken measures to assist people with autism in communicating their condition to law enforcement. Arkansas recently passed a measure allowing individuals to apply for a communication impediment decal on their license or ID card. In Alabama and Florida, drivers who have been diagnosed with autism can carry separate identification cards to present to police. In Kansas, in addition to an indicator on their driver’s licenses, people with autism can have a decal placed on their license plates and a placard which they can place in their vehicles. What’s the Downside? While these programs are helpful to both people with autism and law enforcement, there can be stigma and assumptions that go along with a diagnosis. Law enforcement officers aren't the only people who see someone's driver's license. Under Texas's initiative, there is no indication on the license that the individual has an autism diagnosis, only that they have a communication impediment. The code is also not prominently displayed on the license. In other states, decals are affixed to the license which may draw more attention to the fact that someone has a health issue. The use of autism-specific identification cards clearly indicates to others the specifics of a diagnosis; however, the individual is not required to present the card to anyone if they choose not to. The key seems to be the voluntary nature of these programs and allowing an individual with autism decide how they would like to proceed. Additionally, these initiatives should not be seen as a panacea. Law enforcement should still undergo training on how to identify people with intellectual/developmental disabilities and how to properly interact with them. If you or a loved one has autism and has been arrested or convicted of a crime, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. Elizabeth Kelley specializes in representing individuals with mental illnesses and intellectual disabilities. To schedule a consultation call (509) 991-7058.
17 Comments
6/25/2022 09:38:52 pm
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11/22/2023 11:42:20 am
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11/8/2023 07:47:10 pm
My cousin, who is on the autism spectrum, astutely notified the authorities of my mother's petite mal seizure by calling 911. It's truly astonishing and a blessing that she understood the right action to take. One should never undervalue the capabilities of others!
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11/9/2023 06:50:19 pm
My cousin, who is on the autism spectrum, promptly and wisely alerted the authorities to my mother's petite mal seizure by dialing 911. It's remarkable and a true blessing that she knew the appropriate steps to take. One should never underestimate the abilities of others!
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11/10/2023 02:32:43 pm
My cousin, who is on the autism spectrum, quickly and astutely notified the authorities about my mother's petite mal seizure by calling 911. It's impressive and truly fortunate that she knew the right actions to take. We should always recognize and appreciate the capabilities of others!
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11/17/2023 05:37:44 pm
My cousin, who has autism, successfully notified the police about my mother experiencing a petite mal seizure by calling 911. It's amazing and a true blessing that she knew how to respond. This goes to show that one should never underestimate anyone's capabilities!
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11/22/2023 11:45:01 am
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12/12/2023 08:35:56 am
My cousin, who is autistic, successfully contacted the police by dialing 911 when my mother experienced a petite mal seizure. It's truly miraculous, and it's a blessing that she knew what to do. Never underestimate anyone!
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12/13/2023 05:33:29 pm
My autistic cousin successfully contacted the police by dialing 911 when my mother had a petite mal seizure. It's truly miraculous, and it's a blessing that she knew what to do. Never underestimate anyone!
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1/8/2024 09:15:13 pm
My cousin, who has autism, impressively managed to call 911 when my mother had a petite mal seizure. It's an incredible feat and a blessing that she knew the right action to take. It's a reminder never to underestimate anyone's capabilities!
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3/4/2024 05:47:28 pm
This article brings attention to a critical issue faced by individuals with autism when interacting with law enforcement, offering a solution that could potentially save lives. By implementing a communication impediment code on driver's licenses, Texas has taken a significant step towards ensuring safer and more understanding interactions between law enforcement and individuals with autism. The article effectively communicates the importance of such measures in preventing misunderstandings and potential harm, highlighting the need for increased awareness and support for those with autism in the criminal justice system. Overall, it's a well-written piece that sheds light on an important aspect of inclusivity and accessibility in our society. Great job in providing such valuable information and advocating for positive change!
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3/4/2024 09:59:04 pm
This article sheds light on an important issue faced by individuals with autism when interacting with law enforcement. By introducing the concept of a communication impediment code on driver's licenses, it offers a practical solution to help bridge the gap in communication between individuals with autism and police officers. The article effectively explains how the code works and its optional nature, addressing concerns about stigma and privacy. Moreover, it highlights similar initiatives in other states, demonstrating a broader effort to support individuals with autism in their interactions with law enforcement. Overall, this article not only raises awareness but also provides valuable information that can potentially save lives and improve outcomes for individuals with autism during encounters with law enforcement.
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3/4/2024 10:44:25 pm
This article shines a light on an important issue that affects individuals with autism and law enforcement interactions, providing valuable information on how Texas and other states are working to address these challenges. By explaining the communication impediment code and its benefits, the article helps readers understand how individuals with autism can navigate encounters with law enforcement more safely. It also acknowledges the potential stigma associated with such programs and emphasizes the importance of voluntary participation and ongoing training for law enforcement officers. Overall, this article not only raises awareness but also offers practical solutions, making a positive impact on readers' understanding of this complex issue.
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3/7/2024 09:03:45 pm
This article highlights a significant concern regarding the interactions between individuals with autism and law enforcement, offering crucial insights into how Texas and other states are tackling these obstacles. It elucidates the communication impediment code and its advantages, aiding readers in grasping how those with autism can more securely interact with police. Additionally, the piece considers the possible stigma tied to these initiatives, stressing the value of optional engagement and continuous education for police personnel. In essence, this article not only enhances awareness but also provides actionable strategies, positively influencing readers' comprehension of this intricate matter.
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3/19/2024 10:43:35 pm
This article beautifully sheds light on an important issue, illustrating how people with autism can face challenges when interacting with law enforcement. By discussing Texas's initiative to include a communication impediment code on driver's licenses, the article provides valuable information on how individuals with autism can communicate their condition to law enforcement officers. It emphasizes the significance of such initiatives in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals with autism during encounters with law enforcement. Additionally, it acknowledges the importance of respecting individuals' choices regarding disclosure of their diagnosis, highlighting the voluntary nature of these programs. Overall, this article offers a compassionate and informative perspective on supporting individuals with autism in their interactions with law enforcement, fostering understanding and awareness in the community.
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3/20/2024 02:18:52 am
This article sheds light on an important aspect of supporting individuals with autism in their interactions with law enforcement, providing valuable information about the communication impediment code implemented in Texas and similar initiatives in other states. By explaining the purpose and process of obtaining a communication impediment code on a driver's license, the article educates readers about practical steps that can help individuals with autism navigate encounters with law enforcement more effectively. Additionally, it addresses potential concerns such as stigma and the voluntary nature of these programs, offering a balanced perspective on their benefits and limitations. Overall, this article serves as a valuable resource for raising awareness and promoting understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with autism in their interactions with the criminal justice system. Great job on providing such helpful and informative content!
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4/22/2024 08:57:42 am
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