SE Valley Times

The Arizona House of Representatives has approved HB2330, a bill sponsored by House Majority Whip Julie Willoughby. This legislation allows individuals with disabilities to disclose their communication needs to law enforcement, aiming to enhance safety and understanding during traffic stops and other interactions.

HB2330 instructs the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to enable drivers or state ID holders to voluntarily indicate if they require communication accommodations. Vehicle owners can also request a notation in the registration record if a frequent passenger has communication challenges. This information will be securely accessible only to law enforcement officers through their computer-aided dispatch system, ensuring it is used solely for improving interactions between officers and the public.

"This bill is meant to ensure law enforcement has the tools to communicate effectively and appropriately with individuals who may be deaf, hard of hearing, neurodivergent, or have other communication needs," said Representative Willoughby. "I’ve personally met with members of the deaf and hard of hearing community who are thrilled about this step forward. This is an opt-in system that empowers individuals to provide important information that could prevent misunderstandings and de-escalate potentially stressful situations."

The bill aligns with the House Republican Majority’s commitment to public safety and protecting individual rights. By providing law enforcement officers access to critical information when engaging with individuals who may struggle with verbal communication, HB2330 supports safer policing while respecting personal privacy and choice.

Under current law, ADOT allows certain medical conditions on driver’s licenses but does not retain those records unless requested. HB2330 builds on this framework by making communication accommodation data accessible to law enforcement while maintaining strict privacy controls.

With its passage in the House, HB2330 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

Julie Willoughby is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 13 in Chandler, Gilbert, and Sun Lakes. She also serves as the House Majority Whip. Follow her on X at @JWilloughbyAZ.

Information from this article can be found here.