On Sunday morning, with the support of the Autism Society of the Greater Capital Region, Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, D-Rotterdam, unveiled legislation creating the state’s first Autism Spectrum Disorder Identification Cards (A.8389).

The legislation would provide New Yorkers diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder the option to obtain an identification card that would assist in their interactions with law enforcement and in emergency situations. The card is designed to serve as an effective communication tool that will convey information about a person’s diagnosis, such as trouble following directions and an aversion to physical contact or shared space.

There would also be an option to include emergency contact information on the card.

“This optional identification card can be another effective communication tool to help people with Autism Spectrum Disorder enjoy the opportunities of everyday life. The card will help to easily and efficiently communicate a person’s diagnosis and other critical information to avoid misunderstandings during an emergency or the escalation of routine social interactions into potentially dangerous situations,” said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara.

This would be the first standardized identification card of its kind in New York, replacing locally issued identifications and homemade notes. Identification cards could be obtained at your local DMV office with proof of the Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis by a health care provider.