SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Natalie Toro’s legislation to protect people with disabilities from violent encounters with police has just become law.

“Autism sensitivity training will make interactions with police much more comfortable for people with disabilities and prevent tragic misunderstandings,” said Toro (D-Chicago). “Through learning about the unique communication challenges people with autism may face, especially in stressful situations like encounters with police officers, members of law enforcement will be able to respond with empathy and de-escalate before a situation turns tragic.”

People with autism may experience unique challenges when interacting with police. Without proper training on how some people with autism communicate, law enforcement officers may interpret their behavior as being noncompliant with questioning or instructions. This has caused interactions between law enforcement and individuals with autism to escalate quickly, resulting in unnecessary use of force, trauma and even death.

Senate Bill 3201 requires law enforcement to go through training on autism-informed responses, as well as best procedures and techniques when engaging with individuals with autism, including those who may be victims. Under the new law, all law enforcement officers must complete this training every three years.

People with disabilities are seven times more likely than people without disabilities to have an encounter with law enforcement, underscoring the importance of the new training requirement.

“Parents and loved ones of people with autism worry that one encounter with law enforcement will leave their lives forever altered,” said Toro. “This law will prevent tragedies from happening and foster greater understanding between police officers and members of the communities they serve.”

Senate Bill 3201 was signed into law Friday. It goes into effect Jan. 1, 2025.