Police in Michigan Now Able to Identify People with Deafness or Autism

Getting pulled over by police for a traffic violation can be a scary situation for someone with deafness or autism. It's very difficult for people with these conditions to sometimes understand or even comply with officers. Hell, it can be scary for police officers too who have to deal with or walk into an unknown situation. Well, that is about to change in Michigan.

According to US News, Michigan residents with conditions that could impede communication with law enforcement such as deafness or autism can now apply to have a designation associated with their information that comes up on officers’ computer systems during traffic stops.

So basically before even engaging with someone, police would know in advance whether or not someone behind the wheel was deaf or had autism. This is a game-changer for advocates and members of the deaf, deafblind, and autism communities

Speaking of, Jocelyn Benson was joined by members of the deaf, deafblind, and autism communities this week during her rollout of the new tool that informs law enforcement when pulling up their information during traffic stops and other encounters.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson:

Alerting law enforcement to the needs of the citizens they interact with helps ensure the safety and comfort of everyone involved. This new designation will open new doors of opportunity for all Michiganders.

It doesn't cost anything for the designation but you must apply by emailing, mailing, or faxing the form to the address below:

Michigan Department of State
7064 Crowner Dr. Lansing, MI 48918