Committee members urge expanded autism training for patrol officers; QR-code and DMV ID ideas proposed

During general comments at the Feb. 2 meeting, a committee member (identified in discussion as Allison) described meeting with Sheriff Gary Driscoll and urged broader autism training for patrol officers, not only SROs. "We need to get back to it," a committee member said in support, noting officers on call may not recognize signs of autism and sometimes misinterpret behavior as combative.

Allison proposed a QR-code system in vehicles: a sticker placed in the glove box or inside the driver door that first responders could scan to reveal basic identifying information (name, emergency contacts), a short calming video or instructions, and any helpful interaction notes. She said the system would serve nonverbal individuals in medical or traffic incidents until emergency contacts arrive.

Committee members discussed an existing DMV registration and sticker program: one member said parents can register a vehicle with the DMV and receive a Louisiana sticker (puzzle-piece symbol) and an ID noting autism to help first responders. Members agreed to publicize the DMV option and to coordinate on potential local training and outreach.

Speakers suggested practical next steps: reconnecting with the sheriff’s office about training, exploring a pilot session (potentially at a sheriff’s office training day or new-officer academy), and combining local outreach with Families Helping Families’ existing resources.

No formal motion to adopt a new program or ordinance was made; members said they would continue planning and outreach outside the formal meeting record.