When a driver with a communication impairment is stopped by law enforcement, a routine traffic stop can be a difficult interaction for that individual if they are not able to effectively communicate with the officer. My legislation would make that interaction easier by allowing individuals the opportunity to include a communication impairment on their driver’s license and opt to also include that designation on electronic records filed with PennDOT. This bill would give the option for a designation to a number of individuals who may have communication impairments including individuals with autism, those who are deaf or hard of hearing, and individuals with a speech impairment. As a person who speaks with a diagnosed speech impediment, I know firsthand the positive effects this legislation would have. Please join me in co-sponsoring this important bill to provide additional protections to drivers with communication impairments.&nbsp;

Support Communication Impairment Designation on Driver’s Licenses

As your constituent, I am respectfully asking you to help get HB1700 onto the Senate floor for a vote.  This bill is widely popular and passed the House unanimously.

This bill would signficantly improve the qualify of life for my family.  I have a loved one who is affected by a communication impairment and this legislation would provide safeguards in the event of an emergency.

When a driver with a communication impairment is stopped by law enforcement, what should be a routine traffic stop can quickly become a stressful and difficult interaction. If an individual is unable to effectively communicate with an officer, misunderstandings can occur—creating unnecessary risk for both the driver and law enforcement.

This legislation would help address that challenge by allowing individuals to voluntarily include a communication impairment designation on their driver’s license, with the option to also include that designation in electronic records maintained by PennDOT. This advance notice would support clearer, safer interactions during traffic stops while fully respecting individual choice and privacy.

The designation would be available to individuals with a range of communication impairments, including people with autism, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, and those with speech impairments. These Pennsylvanians deserve reasonable, proactive accommodations that promote safety, dignity, and understanding.

This bill represents a practical, compassionate step toward improving public safety and protecting the rights of drivers with communication challenges.

I respectfully ask you support this important legislation and help provide additional protections for drivers with communication impairments across the Commonwealth.

Thank you for your consideration and commitment to public safety and accessibility.