New state bill aims to equip first responders with autism awareness for safer interactions

VIDEO: A team of bipartisan state lawmakers is prioritizing autism education for all South Carolina first responders. A bill at the State House would require neurodiversity training for all police officers, firefighters and EMS. Rep. Kathy Landing is a vocal sponsor. She said the legislation is a crucial next step in making sure public safety serves all types of people. The first step, Landing says, was passed last year and dubbed ‘Rioโ€™s Law.’ When Gov. Henry McMaster signed it into law, South Carolina became the first state in the nation to offer license plates specifically for autistic or neurodivergent drivers and passengers. โ€œThis identifier lets the officers, or the first responders know to turn off sirens, turn off lights, approach calmly. Someone in that vehicle is on the spectrum, so they know what they’re walking into,โ€ said Layla Luna, founder of Just Bee.

WPDE-TV ABC 15 Florence

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