Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, has secured passage of legislation providing an optional indicator designating an autism diagnosis on driver's licenses and state IDs.

House Bill 3671 would create an optional identifying mark for driver's licenses and state IDs to indicate that the person has autism. Miller said the end goal was to help law enforcement be aware of why a person may be displaying certain behaviors and communicating differently, but she stressed that the designator was entirely optional.

"House Bill 3671 aims to provide individuals with autism and their families a choice to add an optional designation to their driver's licenses," Miller said. "By signaling to law enforcement about someone's unique needs, we can foster understanding and ensure safety for everyone."

In October, Miller organized an interim study on the topic to hear directly from advocates, law enforcement and first responders before deciding to file the bill.

Emily Scott, Executive Director for the Autism Foundation of Oklahoma, applauded the bill's passage.

"Tuesday was an exciting day for so many autistic self-advocates and families who have voiced their desire for a program like this in Oklahoma for many years," Scott said. "People with autism are often susceptible to being misjudged because this disorder is invisible. This bill aims to prevent miscommunication and help officers feel better equipped to engage with autistic Oklahomans, making for more effective interactions for both parties. As a professional serving this population and the parent of an autistic son, I am deeply grateful to Rep. Miller for authoring HB3671 and to all members of the House for their support in passing this bill on the House floor. This is a significant step forward in our collective efforts to improve the lives of our fellow Oklahomans with autism."

Data from the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that one in 36 children and one in 46 adults in the U.S. have autism.

HB3671 passed the House 91-2 and now moves to the Senate for consideration, where its Senate author is Sen. Bill Coleman, R-Ponca City.