Eric Carpenter-Grantham and his mother Linda are on a mission to change outcomes for those who live with non-apparent disabilities. Like many, Linda felt compelled to have “The Talk” with Eric following the murder of George Floyd. Creating a scenario with law enforcement officers and steps to take when engaging, Linda was hoping to demonstrate how Eric should respond and inform officers of his autism diagnosis. Eric’s response was visceral and unexpected. He didn’t think of himself but of his peers who had greater communication deficits. Overcome by fear, Eric was insistent that he wanted to do something. And so… Eric’s ID Law was birthed.
Maryland residents will now be able to elect to have a special logo placed on their license or identification cards to communicate to first responders of a non-apparent disability. B-InPowerD had the pleasure of sitting down with Eric and Linda shortly after the law passed the General Assembly. When asked, what’s next? Eric did not hesitate to share that he is ready to take on the country! The dynamic duo is working to make sure every individual with a non-apparent disability has the option to add this designation to their identification cards, of all kinds!
Join B-InPowerD and support Eric’s ID Law by sending a letter of support to your representatives in two simple steps.
First – Feel free to copy and paste this example:
Subject: Eric’s ID Law
Message:
Hello, I am writing to express my support for Eric’s ID Law (Senate Bill 618), a bill that will allow people with non-apparent disabilities to communicate their condition on their license or ID cards. I believe having this designation will reduce the amount of negative interactions people with non-apparent disabilities have with first responders, especially law enforcement officers. The goal of Eric’s ID law is to share important information quickly and efficiently. I have no doubt that supporting the passing of this law will save lives.
Thank you,