A proposed law in Maryland could soon offer residents the option to disclose “nonapparent disabilities” on their driver’s licenses and identification cards. Known as “Eric’s ID Law” (House Bill 707), the bill would require the state’s Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) to provide a special symbol on state-issued IDs to signal such conditions discreetly. The goal is to improve communication during interactions with law enforcement and prevent misunderstandings that could escalate into dangerous situations.
The idea came from the Carpenter-Grantham family, who publicly advocated for the initiative on an episode of ABC’s “The View” in 2020. The proposal followed nationwide protests sparked by George Floyd’s murder, which raised concerns about police encounters for vulnerable individuals. Linda Carpenter-Grantham, the mother behind the proposal, explained the personal fears that inspired her advocacy. “I realized that I have an African American son with an invisible disability,” she said. For her, the risk of police misinterpreting his behavior was a frightening reality.
If enacted, the bill would require the MVA to collaborate with disability advocates to design the symbol while also launching a public education campaign to explain the system. To safeguard privacy, the MVA would not be permitted to demand proof of disability from applicants or share any disability-related information with outside parties. Moreover, law enforcement officers would undergo specialized training on how to interact with individuals whose IDs display the symbol, with oversight from the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission.
A public hearing on the bill is scheduled for February 13 at 1 p.m.
The term “nonapparent disability” encompasses a range of conditions that are not immediately visible but can significantly affect a person’s life. These include developmental and intellectual disabilities, mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and physical conditions like deafness, diabetes, and chronic pain disorders. The research underscores the importance of such initiatives. A study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) identified various nonapparent disabilities that can influence daily functioning and communication. Additionally, a 2001 Department of Justice study found that individuals with developmental disabilities are seven times more likely to have interactions with law enforcement than neurotypical individuals.
Supporters of the bill argue that it could save lives by encouraging police officers to approach situations with empathy and caution. Sarah Johnson, a disability rights advocate, emphasized the importance of this measure. “This could prevent unnecessary confrontations. When officers see the symbol, they’ll know to handle the situation with greater care.”
For Carpenter-Grantham, the initiative is deeply personal. “This is about ensuring my son—and others like him—can feel safe and understood,” she said.
However, not everyone supports the measure without reservations. Some privacy advocates have voiced concerns that the symbol might inadvertently disclose sensitive information or be misused. Lawmakers have responded by emphasizing that participation in the program is voluntary and that strong safeguards are in place to protect applicants’ privacy.
Despite these concerns, momentum for the bill is growing among legislators and community leaders. Many view it as a timely response to ongoing discussions about police reform and disability rights. If passed, Maryland could set a precedent for other states looking to implement similar reforms.
The February 13 hearing is expected to draw testimony from a wide range of stakeholders, including disability advocates, law enforcement officials, and families affected by hidden disabilities. Advocates hope the hearing will underscore the importance of fostering safety and understanding for all residents, particularly those with conditions that might not be immediately obvious.
Families like the Carpenter-Granthams are hopeful but cautious. “This law could change lives,” Carpenter-Grantham said. “It’s about giving people the dignity and protection they deserve. That’s something everyone should support.”
As the bill moves through the legislative process, national attention is turning to Maryland. Should the legislation pass, it could become a landmark victory for disability rights and a model for broader reforms aimed at safeguarding vulnerable populations during critical encounters. For now, the future of Eric’s ID Law hangs in the balance, with advocates pushing for a legal framework that prioritizes both empathy and security.
