OOD and BMV initiative reaches milestone

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities and the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, have announced a milestone: Over 2,000 license plates have been registered in the voluntary database for individuals with communication disabilities.

This initiative allows individuals with a medically diagnosed communication disability to voluntarily enroll in a law-enforcement database. This connection ensures officers involved in a traffic stop are informed if a driver or passenger may have communication challenges, thereby reducing the risk for misunderstandings.

“Having this information right up front is helping law-enforcement officers add an additional layer of understanding in their approach to these situations, creating a smoother stop for all involved,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said. “Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that all people feel safe and secure while interacting with law enforcement. I encourage anyone who has a communications disability to sign up to participate.”

To enroll, individuals must obtain a verification form from a physician, psychiatrist or psychologist to confirm their communication disability. The completed form should then be submitted to the BMV.

“This has been a game changer for individuals with communication disabilities. By opting in, a communication disability is flagged for law enforcement, but exact disabilities remain private,” said Kevin L. Miller, director of OOD.

Charlie Norman, BMV registrar, highlighted the value of the database. “Access to this information is an invaluable resource for Ohio law enforcement, improving communication and fostering trust, community stability and officer safety.”

OOD is the state agency responsible for empowering Ohioans with disabilities through employment, disability determinations and independence.