Starting this October 2025, a new law protecting the rights of people with disabilities has taken effect in Maryland. It is called Eric’s ID Law, which aims to inform first responders about a disability. How does it work? From now on, voluntarily, those who have some type of invisible disability can request to have a butterfly symbol on their driver’s license and ID card, representing that they are a person with an invisible disability. This makes encounters with others easier, knowing how to proceed. This initiative was started by Eric Carpenter-Grantham and his mother Linda Carpenter-Grantham. Eric has autism, which is not an obvious disability, so his interactions with the police used to be challenging.
This measure has been officially published by the Government of Maryland, and the butterfly has been chosen as a symbol of hope, peace, and freedom. Those interested in obtaining their identification can do so by requesting it from the Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA). Meanwhile, the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission is working with law enforcement to train them on how to interact with people who have some type of intellectual disability and display the butterfly symbol on their identification.
New inclusive law in Maryland
Starting this October 2025, the state of Maryland has implemented a new law that protects the rights of people with disabilities, especially those that are not so apparent. It is precisely under this premise that this new law, Eric’s ID Law, was born, driven by Eric Carpenter-Grantham and his mother Linda Carpenter-Grantham. The Government of Maryland has made an official statement about it, explaining its operation and enforcement.
Eric’s ID Law
Eric Carpenter-Grantham has a high level of autism, but it is not an apparent or physical disability. That is why when he faced situations where he had to interact, for example, with the police, he often ended up in conflict due to inadequate communication on both sides. Based on his personal experience, he decided to take action, and together with his mother, he launched this new initiative.
What does the new law consist of?
Not all disabilities are visible, so having a tool that demonstrates this would greatly facilitate interactions. That is why it has been decided that people with disabilities could request that both their driver’s license and ID display the symbol of a butterfly. It is a discreet but effective way to communicate that additional attention is needed in case of an emergency.
Why a butterfly?
The choice of symbolism has not been left to chance. The butterfly has been chosen as a symbol of hope, peace, freedom, and change. Its presence on identification cards removes barriers in communication and interaction among people, ensuring fair access for everyone.
How to request it?
his type of identification does not differ at all from the official ones, as it remains exactly the same but with a butterfly. It is also not mandatory for those with disabilities, as they are free to choose whether they want to have this tool or not. To request it, you can do so by scheduling an in-person appointment at a Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, or online through the myMVA account.
Inclusion of people with hidden disabilities
The Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission is working with law enforcement to properly train them when interacting with people with this type of disability. It will be necessary for them to act calmly, patiently, compassionately, and with understanding, reducing any possible nervousness the situation may cause for the affected person. Maryland is a pioneer in this type of initiative, but it is expected that other states will adopt it in the same way, making the butterfly symbol recognized nationwide.
