Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced today his legislation creating the state’s first Autism Spectrum Disorder Identification Cards passed the State Assembly and was delivered to the State Senate for their consideration.

The legislation (A.249) would provide New Yorkers diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder the option of obtaining an identification card that would assist in their interactions with law enforcement and other first responders during emergency situations. The card is designed to serve as an effective communication tool to convey important information about a person’s diagnosis, such as trouble following directions, aversion to physical contact or shared space and an option to include emergency contact information.

The I.D. card would be the first standardized identification card of its kind in New York, replacing locally issued identifications and homemade notes. Identification cards will be obtained through the state Office of People with Developmental Disabilities.

“This option of using an identification card as another form of communication can help people with Autism Spectrum Disorder achieve greater independence,” said Santabarbara, whose 15-year-old son, Michael, was diagnosed with autism at age 3. “The card can help with both routine and emergency interactions by easily and efficiently communicating a person’s diagnosis and other critical information.”

Now Santabarbara is hoping to see the bill come to the Senate floor for a vote that could make this important communication tool a reality for New Yorkers affected by autism.

The bill is part of Santabarbara’s Autism Action NY legislative plan aimed at increasing job opportunities; providing independent housing options; improving access to information; assisting in communication; and, most importantly, creating a centralized location for services available in New York State.

The central bill of Autism Action NY was signed into law last November (Chapter 469 of 2016). The law created the state’s first Autism Spectrum Disorder Advisory Board to develop, implement and annually update a statewide Autism Action Plan, incorporating new information as it becomes available.