OHIO — A new milestone has been reached for Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities and the Ohio BMV, a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, after more than 2,000 license plates have been registered in the database for drivers with communication disabilities.

The goal with the initiative is to allow individuals with a medically diagnosed communication disability to enroll, voluntarily, in a database which lets officers know of communication challenges during a traffic stop. Leaders hope the database will reduce misunderstandings between the officers and the individuals with the challenge.

“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,” said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine in a news release. “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.”

Individuals need a verification form from a physician, psychiatrist or psychologist confirming their condition, which is then submitted to the BMV.

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

Officers will not know the exact nature of the communication challenge, but when the license plate is entered by police, they will know that the person, or someone who rides frequently in the vehicle, has a communication disability.

For more information on how to register, click here.