State Police Announce Autism Awareness Visor Card Program – Designed to Assist Members of Law Enforcement and Individuals With Autism

The New York State Police have announced the introduction of their Autism Awareness Visor Card Program. The program, State Police say, is designed to assist both members of law enforcement and individuals with autism during public interactions.

State Police say over the past decades, diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, have become more prevalent with 1 in every 45 adults in the country having autism. Those who have autism may face unique challenges during interactions with law enforcement due to communication differences. Those include sensory sensitivities, and difficulties with social interaction. State Police say these challenges could make it harder to understand instructions, provide requested information, or respond appropriately, which could then lead to misunderstandings.

“With more than one million public contacts annually, State Police members will inevitably interact with individuals on the autism spectrum. To support these encounters and improve communication, the Division has developed the Autism Awareness – Visor Card.”

State Police said in a release.

The Visor Card Program will have a card that features simple visual icons that Troopers will use to assist with communication and reduce confusion or fear during interactions. State Police say each patrol vehicle will be equipped with the card for use when needed. However, members of the public will also be allowed to download and print the card directly from the State Police website.

State Police say the Autism Awareness – Visor Card Program will roll out statewide within the coming weeks.