Eric’s ID Law goes into effect Oct. 1

MARYLAND – Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration will be introducing new hidden disability symbols that can be added to identification cards and driver’s licenses, starting on Wednesday, Oct. 1. 

Individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities, also known as “hidden disabilities,” will be able to voluntarily add a butterfly symbol to their ID card. Customers may add this optional designation to alert first responders about their hidden disability, at no charge. The designation was inspired to promote safety and understanding while protecting one’s personal privacy. 

The change comes as a result of House Bill 717/Senate Bill 618, more commonly known as Eric’s ID Law, which was signed into law by Governor Wes Moore on May 13. The law is named after Eric Carpenter-Grantham, a 20-year old from Montgomery County who lives with high-functioning autism. His mother, Linda, advocated for the passage of this policy and turned her family’s experience into statewide change. 

A press conference will be held by the Maryland Department of Transportation on Wednesday morning to debut the new designation.