Georgia lawmakers have approved legislation aimed at helping law enforcement officers better handle traffic stops involving people with autism and developmental disabilities.

The measure, known as “Rio’s Law,” will require officers to receive training on effective communication, de-escalation, and alternatives to handcuffing during encounters with autistic individuals.

The legislation also creates a voluntary specialty license plate designed to alert officers that a driver or passenger may have autism or another developmental disability. Supporters say the goal is to reduce misunderstandings during high-stress situations such as traffic stops.

The bill is named after Rio Luna, a South Carolina boy with autism whose mother pushed for similar legislation after a traumatic traffic stop experience involving sensory overload.

State Sen. Brian Strickland, who sponsored the bill and is the father of a child with autism, said the training requirement will help officers better recognize behaviors linked to autism that might otherwise be misunderstood.

Advocates say autistic individuals may avoid eye contact, struggle with verbal communication, become overwhelmed by lights and sirens, or react differently during stressful situations. The new training is intended to help officers respond more safely and effectively.

The legislation received unanimous approval in the Georgia General Assembly and is expected to take effect in 2027.