Salisbury: State Police Autism Spectrum Disorder interaction card can be valuable resource for autistic Pennsylvanians
Can assist in communication, improve interactions during stressful situations
Rep. Abigail Salisbury October 6, 2025 | 5:03 PM
BRADDOCK, Oct. 6 – State Rep. Abigail Salisbury wants autistic Pennsylvanians or people with loved ones on the spectrum to be aware of the Pennsylvania State Police’s Autism Spectrum Disorder interaction card.
Salisbury said the “ASD card” – which can be downloaded for free and carried in a wallet or saved on a phone – may be a helpful option for people on the autism spectrum when they are dealing with law enforcement in some situations.
“In certain situations, interactions with police can be difficult for some people on the autism spectrum,” said Salisbury, who is chair of the Pennsylvania Autism Caucus and the first person with an autism diagnosis to hold that position. “Some people may experience sensory overload in situations involving lights and sirens, loud noises or other high-stress events, which can cause them to shut down and appear uncooperative or unpredictable.
“As someone on the spectrum, I understand these challenges, which is why I was glad to see the Pennsylvania State Police develop this resource in conjunction with an autistic consultant. Presenting the card can help communicate critical information at a stressful time. It’s one more tool in our toolbox to improve interactions for people with autism.”
Lieutenant Adam Reed, of the Pennsylvania State Police, said the card is equally helpful to law enforcement officers.
“As police officers responding to emergencies, you don’t know what you’re getting into or the background of the people you’re speaking to or trying to help,” Reed said. “Cards like this, when presented to us, give us a chance to pause, review the information and possibly come up with a better avenue for how we can help someone with autism.”
Salisbury said that the card is available by visiting www.psp.pa.gov, clicking on “Resources” on the left side of the page and then “Safety Resources,” and navigating down the page to the section on Autism Spectrum Disorder interaction cards.
Salisbury said her office can also help residents download and print the card.