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Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2013 - 2014 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	April 23, 2015 04:21 PM
From:	Senator Randy Vulakovich
To:	All Senate members
Subject:	Autism Spectrum Disorder Designation

In the near future, I intend to introduce a Senate Companion to HB 104 by Representative Dom Costa that would amend Title 75 (Vehicles) by adding sections (c.1) Autism Spectrum Disorder Designation to §1510 Issuance and Content of Driver’s Licenses. This addition would allow for an individual who is diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder to request to have a notation of their diagnosis placed on their driver’s license or identification card. Autism ID Cards have been a growing trend nationwide. The national Autism Speaks campaign even links to the Autism ID Card developed by SEO Pittsburgh in collaboration with the Allegheny County Office of the Public Defender on their website. While these cards can be very useful, designation of Autism Spectrum Disorder can be even more useful when noted on an individual’s driver’s license or state issued identification card. Individuals with a diagnosis on the Autism Spectrum often can have a difficult time communicating with strangers especially in tense situations, such as interaction in emergency situations with police and fire personnel. A notation on their driver’s license or identification card will alert Police Officers and Emergency Responders to the individual’s medical condition and allow them to interact with the individual in a more appropriate fashion. The notation on the cards is completely voluntary and an individual must present a sworn statement from a qualified medical professional to the Department of Transportation for the notation to be added. Additionally, my legislation will add §1521 Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness. This section allows for any individual applying for an original or renewal driver’s license or identification card to make a voluntary $1 contribution to the newly created Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness Account. The monies from this account shall be placed in a restricted account in the General Fund and may only be used by the Department of Health to offer education and training to working professionals for interactions and understanding with individuals on Autism Spectrum. Please join me truly supporting autism awareness by helping bridge the communication gap between individuals suffering from Autism Spectrum Disorder and Emergency Responders. Should you have any questions, please contact Charlie O’Neill in my Office at (717) 787-6538

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