STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – The Arizona House of Representatives has passed HB2330, legislation sponsored by House Majority Whip Julie Willoughby that ensures individuals with disabilities have the option to disclose communication needs to law enforcement, improving safety and understanding during traffic stops and other encounters.

HB2330 directs the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to allow individuals with a driver’s license or state ID to voluntarily indicate that they may need communication accommodations. It also permits vehicle owners to request a notation in the registration record if a frequent occupant of their vehicle has communication challenges. This information will be securely available only to law enforcement officers in their computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, ensuring it is used solely to improve interactions between officers and the public.

“This bill is meant to ensure law enforcement has the tools to communicate effectively and appropriately with individuals who may be deaf, hard of hearing, neurodivergent, or have other communication needs,” said Representative Willoughby. “I’ve personally met with members of the deaf and hard of hearing community who are thrilled about this step forward. This is an opt-in system that empowers individuals to provide important information that could prevent misunderstandings and de-escalate potentially stressful situations.”

The bill aligns with the House Republican Majority’s commitment to public safety and protecting individual rights. By ensuring law enforcement officers have access to critical information when engaging with individuals who may struggle with verbal communication, HB2330 supports safer and more effective policing while respecting personal privacy and choice.

Under existing law, ADOT allows certain medical conditions to be noted on driver’s licenses, but the agency does not retain those records unless requested. HB2330 builds on this framework by making communication accommodation data accessible to law enforcement while maintaining strict privacy controls.

With today’s passage by the House, HB2330 advances to the Senate for further consideration.

Julie Willoughby is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 13 in Chandler, Gilbert, and Sun Lakes. She also serves as the House Majority Whip. Follow her on X at @JWilloughbyAZ.