Maryland transportation officials, lawmakers and advocates unveiled a new optional butterfly symbol for driver’s licenses, identification cards and moped permits on October 1, 2025, to alert first responders to hidden disabilities. The initiative, enacted through House Bill 707 and Senate Bill 618, allows residents with developmental or intellectual disabilities to add the designation at no cost, aiming to facilitate better interactions during encounters where communication challenges may arise.
The symbol, positioned on the front of the card similar to organ donor or veteran indicators, requires no supporting documentation and is voluntary. Maryland Transportation Acting Secretary Samantha J. Biddle described it as “an important step toward making Maryland roads and communities safer and more accessible for everyone,” noting that “not every disability is visible, and this is an easy, free way to communicate with residents and first responders.” She commended the Motor Vehicle Administration for its role in enhancing services statewide.
Inspired by Eric Carpenter-Grantham, a resident with high-functioning autism, the law—known as Eric’s ID Law—stemmed from advocacy by his mother, Linda Carpenter-Grantham. Their experiences highlighted how misunderstandings during routine interactions could escalate due to unrecognized disabilities. “Eric’s ID Law is a victory for the Disabilities community,” the Carpenter-Granthams stated. “The law is a symbol of progress and compassion, providing a greater sense of security and encouraging understanding and respect for those with hidden disabilities such as autism, mental health, hearing impaired, and all hidden disabilities.” The butterfly emblem represents hope, peace, freedom and change.
State Senator William C. Smith Jr., sponsor of Senate Bill 618, emphasized the grassroots origins: “The significance of this bill is that it started as an idea from a constituent. We went out for coffee, discussed their concerns, and that’s the majesty of the process.” He praised the Carpenter-Granthams’ involvement, adding, “It’s rare to see a small seed of an idea grow into a piece of legislation that will have a meaningful impact on so many people. With Eric being the first to receive the designation on his license, I look forward to seeing the positive difference this will make for him and others in the future.”
Delegate Jheanelle K. Wilkins, lead sponsor of House Bill 707, highlighted its potential: “Eric’s ID Law has the power to save lives, and I’m honored to serve as its lead House sponsor. This legislation reflects true collaboration between community and law enforcement, and we all have a role in spreading the word so that anyone who can benefit from the butterfly symbol knows it’s available.”
Additional support came from state leaders. Lt. Governor Aruna K. Miller stated, “Eric’s ID Law ensures all Marylanders are treated with dignity and respect. The butterfly designation on licenses and IDs will help first responders better assist individuals with hidden disabilities. This simple, yet powerful, symbol reflects our commitment to a more inclusive Maryland. I’m proud to stand with Eric and Linda Carpenter-Grantham as they start a national movement.”
MDOT MVA Administrator Chrissy Nizer added, “Providing this option is a simple, yet powerful, way to promote safety and understanding without compromising privacy. This initiative aligns with our values of customer service, innovation, and inclusivity.”
Delegate Kym Taylor noted, “Eric’s ID Law gives moms like me who have adult sons on the spectrum – or have another hidden disability – a sense of relief knowing law enforcement will be continually trained to deal with situations involving our boys.”
Montgomery County Council Vice President At-Large Will Jawando said, “This symbol isn’t just ink on a card, it’s a promise that in a moment of crisis, a first responder will see not just a person, but a person’s story. It’s a promise that in Maryland, we will always choose understanding over ignorance. I’m so thankful for this law to be implemented today.”
Montgomery County Councilmember At-Large Laurie-Anne Sayles remarked, “I’m proud to celebrate the passage of Eric’s ID Law. Standing with fellow lawmakers, advocates, Eric, and his mother, Linda Carpenter-Grantham, I’ve witnessed how courage in the face of adversity can reshape policy and save lives. We’re living in a time when aggressive policing is pardoned, encouraged, and even celebrated at the federal level, but we at the state and local level recognize the fundamental importance of this law to uphold our shared humanity and commitment to community policing. The butterfly symbol on a Driver’s License affirms a simple truth: individuals with hidden disabilities deserve to be recognized and treated with respect, care, and compassion by trained law enforcement and first responders.”
Prince George’s County Council Member Wanika Fisher addressed regional needs: “Our county has one of the highest numbers in the state with individuals with disabilities, so Eric’s ID law is so important to us to make sure our interaction with law enforcement is appropriate and that all members of the community feel safe.”
Anne Arundel County Sheriff Everett L. Sesker commented, “Eric’s ID Law is an excellent example of elected officials, law enforcement and the community working together. Thanks to Eric and his mother, Linda Carpenter’s commitment and dedication, individuals with hidden disabilities can feel safer and a little less stress when navigating through society.”
Ike Ogbuebile, chief executive officer of Autism Ally Group, stated, “Eric’s ID Law will help us to better serve our clients. This new law brings inclusion to the community and safety awareness for all.”
Residents can add or remove the symbol via their myMVA online account, at 24/7 self-service kiosks or during in-person visits to any of the 24 MVA branches across the state. While the designation itself incurs no fee, standard transaction costs, such as for renewals, apply. The Motor Vehicle Administration has integrated this into its services for persons with disabilities, where applicants self-identify without medical verification.
The law took effect alongside more than 400 other measures on October 1, including updates to speed camera regulations and HIV-related statutes, as part of Maryland’s annual legislative implementation cycle.
Hidden disabilities include conditions like autism, hearing impairments or mental health disorders that do not present visibly but can influence responses in high-stress situations. The butterfly, chosen for its symbolic value, aims to prompt accommodations without requiring verbal disclosure, potentially reducing escalation risks.
Maryland joins states like Alaska, Colorado and Utah in offering similar designations. Alaska was the first to implement an invisible disability indicator on licenses and IDs for qualifying individuals, focusing on discreet communication with authorities. Colorado’s program, launched in 2022, allows a mark for various hidden conditions, with an average of three daily sign-ups reported by late 2023. Utah provides a sticker for driver licenses or IDs to denote invisible conditions, used voluntarily to aid interactions.
Studies and reports indicate such symbols improve outcomes by alerting first responders to potential needs for patience or alternative communication methods. For instance, they encourage de-escalation techniques, fostering safer encounters without compromising privacy. In Maryland, the law mandates ongoing training for law enforcement to interpret the symbol effectively, aligning with broader efforts in community policing.
The legislative process for Eric’s ID Law began with constituent input and progressed through committee reviews in the Maryland General Assembly. Signed into law earlier in 2025, it reflects a collaborative approach involving disability advocates, lawmakers and transportation officials.
Maryland’s driver’s license procedures follow federal REAL ID standards, requiring proof of identity, residency and Social Security information for initial issuance. Renewals can be completed online for eligible individuals, with in-person visits needed for vision tests or photos every 16 years. The addition of the hidden disability symbol does not alter these requirements but enhances accessibility, supporting the state’s commitment to inclusive transportation policies.
