VA HB1097

Establishes a driver communication improvement program for drivers diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder under § 46.2-203.3, enabling voluntary participation to facilitate safer interactions during traffic stops

Requires compulsory minimum and in-service training standards for law-enforcement officers on communicating with individuals with autism spectrum disorder, including education about the driver communication improvement program as a crisis prevention resource

Mandates the Board of Health to include education on the autism driver communication program in certification and recertification requirements for emergency medical services providers

Training for law-enforcement must cover behavioral recognition of autism spectrum disorder, crisis prevention and de-escalation techniques, communication tools and technology, and community resources

Standards development requires consultation with individuals with autism, family members, autism specialists, Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services representatives, and law-enforcement agency representatives