BUFFALO, N.Y. — The New York State Police announced on Thursday the introduction of a new program designed to assist both law enforcement and people with autism during public interactions: The Autism Awareness — Visor Card Program.
The Autism Awareness — Visor Card has visual icons that troopers can use to help improve communication and reduce confusion or fear during interactions. According to police, people with autism may struggle to understand instructions, provide requested information, or respond appropriately, which could potentially lead to a misunderstanding.
Officials say 1 in every 45 adults in the U.S. has autism, and may experience the following symptoms:
Each patrol vehicle will be issued its own card; however, the public can also access and download it from the New Yor