Eric’s ID Law: From Policy to Practice at #MACoCon

Effective implementation of Eric’s ID Law will depend on training, coordination, and strong partnerships at the local level.

Interactions between first responders and individuals with nonapparent developmental or intellectual disabilities can present unique communication challenges, particularly during stressful or rapidly evolving situations. While many public safety agencies have expanded crisis intervention training and disability awareness efforts in recent years, identifying when someone may need additional time, different communication strategies, or other accommodations is not always straightforward. Eric’s ID Law represents Maryland’s latest effort to strengthen these interactions by providing a voluntary tool that can help inform first responders while preserving individual choice.

Description: Eric’s ID Law establishes a voluntary designation on Maryland driver’s licenses and identification cards for individuals with nonapparent developmental or intellectual disabilities. The designation is intended to help law enforcement officers and first responders recognize that an individual may communicate, process information, or respond differently during an emergency or other interaction, supporting safer and more effective responses. This session will explore what led Maryland to enact this law, its positive impacts for both government agencies and the community, and the practical considerations for implementation and training. Panelists will discuss the roles of county governments, public safety agencies, and other local partners in ensuring the law is implemented successfully.

Speakers:

  • The Honorable Jheanelle Wilkins, MD House of Delegates
  • Linda Carpenter-Grantham
  • Eric Grantham
  • Matt Crisafulli, Sheriff, Worcester County
  • Christine Nizer, Administrator, MVA

Moderator: The Honorable Kym Taylor, MD House of Delegates

Date/Time: Thursday, August 13, 2026; 10:30 am -11:30 am

MACo’s Summer Conference, “Build What’s Next,” takes place August 12–15, 2026, at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland. For more information, visit the conference website.

Learn more about MACo’s Summer Conference: