Posted: | September 12, 2019 02:52 PM |
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From: | Representative Benjamin V. Sanchez |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Autism Spectrum Disorder Designation |
Individuals on the autism spectrum may have a difficult time communicating with others, especially in tense situations, such as emergencies involving police and fire personnel. This difficulty can create unwanted situations that may inhibit the ability of emergency responders to effectively do their jobs and put unnecessary stress on individuals with autism. For this reason, I am reintroducing House Bill 335 which would allow an individual on the autism spectrum to receive notation on their driver’s license or identification card indicating their condition. This notation would alert emergency responders to the individual’s condition and allow them to interact with the person in a more appropriate fashion. This bill would also establish the Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness Account. Individuals applying for an original or renewal driver’s license or identification card may give a voluntary $3 contribution to the newly created Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness Account. These funds would be placed in a restricted account in the General Fund, only to be used by the Department of Health in providing education and training to working professionals that will interact with individuals on the autism spectrum. Please join me in supporting this legislation and help bring positive change to the lives of individuals with autism and emergency responders. |