Pico Rivera introduces plan for free autism decals for homes and vehicles; sheriff partnership and training planned

City staff and the Pico Rivera Station of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department on Feb. 11 introduced a proposed autism decal program that would provide free visual decals for vehicles and residences and pair that rollout with deputy refresher training.

Gabriel Castarena, media supervisor for the city, said the decals would be available at no cost to caregivers and come in two sizes — 4 inches by 4 inches for vehicles and 5 inches by 5 inches for homes — and would be die-cut so they have no white background. Castarena said the goal is to give first responders a quick visual cue when an individual with autism might be present so deputies and emergency personnel can adapt communications and safety procedures.

Acting Captain Jose Hernandez of the Pico Rivera Station (represented in remarks by city staff) and sheriff’s personnel are collaborating with the city on a refresher training to equip deputies with techniques for interacting with individuals on the autism spectrum, the presentation said. Castarena noted the program was personal to him; he said he has a son with autism and described scenarios where a sticker could help responders adapt during an emergency.

Council members praised the concept and asked staff to return with a full report. No ordinance or budget appropriation was requested or approved at the Feb. 11 meeting; staff said the program would be made available at the sheriff’s station upon request and that a full report would return to council for further action.