Louisiana residents can now request an “Autism Spectrum Disorder” or a “Needs Accommodation” decal for their vehicle at no cost from the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles.
OMV Spokesperson Matthew Boudreaux says the decal will indicate to law enforcement that an individual has a disability.
“It’s going to provide situational awareness for law enforcement officers whether they come up on the scene of a crash or if they make a traffic stop and it’ll alert them and give them knowledge of some potential issues they may see on the stop,” said Boudreaux.
The sticker will be placed on the rear window of the occupant’s vehicle.
Boudreaux says customers must provide a statement from a qualified health professional verifying their diagnosis. But if you already have a driver’s license or identification card with Autism or Needs Accommodation indicator…
“You don’t need to get the medical form filled out we already have that paperwork from when it was issued to you on your license or ID card. So you can just come into the office and receive the decal,” Boudreaux said.
He says the indicator can removed at any time without documentation. Boudreaux says this will have a great effect on people on both sides.
“It’s a win-win for the community and law enforcement. It’s a public safety measure that we think is going to have a huge impact,” said Boudreaux.
