A Georgia lawmaker is pushing for new legislation aimed at improving interactions between law enforcement officers and individuals with developmental disabilities.
The proposal, known as “Rio’s Law,” is being introduced by State Senator Brian Strickland, who says the measure would allow individuals with autism—or families of children with autism—to obtain a specialized license plate. The plate would serve as a voluntary identifier to alert law enforcement officers that the driver or passenger may have communication challenges, helping officers adjust their approach during traffic stops.
Strickland, who has an 8-year-old son with autism, said the license plates would not be mandatory but would provide families with an additional option to help prevent misunderstandings.
In addition to the specialized plates, the bill would require all first responders in Georgia to undergo training on how to recognize and appropriately respond to individuals with special needs. The goal, Strickland said, is to help officers better assess situations and ensure safer outcomes for everyone involved.
The legislation is expected to be presented on the Senate floor today. If approved, the law would take effect in January 2027.
Georgia would not be the first state to adopt such a measure. South Carolina passed its own version of Rio’s Law in 2024.