New York Launches ID Cards For People With Developmental Disabilities

On February 22, 2019, the New York Office for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) began accepting applications for free, specialized identification cards for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD). The card is intended to help first responders better interact with individuals with I/DD who may not be able to communicate well. The cards are not mandatory for this population, and are available upon request.

The cards were made possible by a law signed in August 2018. In addition to showing the person’s name, address and date of birth, and emergency contact information, the identification card includes information . . .