House Majority Whip Julie Willoughby announced the signing of HB2330, a new law aimed at enhancing police interactions with Arizonans who have communication disabilities. The legislation allows individuals to voluntarily disclose their communication needs to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). This information will be securely accessible to law enforcement during traffic stops and other encounters.
Representative Willoughby said, “This bill gives law enforcement officers the information they need to approach situations with better understanding and preparedness—especially when interacting with someone who is deaf, hard of hearing, autistic, or otherwise experiences communication challenges.” She emphasized that it is a practical solution designed to prevent confusion and reduce tension.
The law permits residents to request a communication accommodation flag on their driver’s license record or vehicle registration. This indicates that they or someone frequently in their vehicle may require communication assistance. Access to this information is restricted to secure channels used by law enforcement agencies.
The legislation was influenced by discussions with members of Arizona’s deaf and hard of hearing community and others with communication disabilities. Representative Willoughby noted, “This is an opt-in system. No one is required to participate. But for those who choose to, it provides an added layer of clarity and peace of mind.”
HB2330 received strong bipartisan support in both legislative chambers. It builds on existing medical code provisions by giving individuals more control over how their disability information is used, specifically aiming to improve public safety outcomes.
Julie Willoughby represents Legislative District 13 in Chandler, Gilbert, and Sun Lakes as a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives. She also serves as the House Majority Whip.
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