House unanimously passes Markosek bill to add communication impairment designation to driver’s licenses

Rep. Brandon Markosek September 29, 2026 | 4:11 PM

HARRISBURG, Sept. 29 – State Rep. Brandon Markosek, D-Allegheny, announced today that the Pennsylvania House of Representatives unanimously passed his legislation to allow Pennsylvanians with communication impairments to voluntarily include a designation on their driver's license and in the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s electronic records.

Markosek said eligible individuals would include those with autism, those who are deaf or hard of hearing, and those with diagnosed speech impairments.

"As someone who has stuttered since a young age, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be when others don't understand you,” Markosek said. “Traffic stops can become stressful and for drivers who face communication barriers, they can be overwhelming. This bill would give those drivers a tool to prevent misunderstandings and let officers know what to expect, so that both sides can approach the moment with less confusion."

Markosek added that under this legislation, participation would be entirely voluntary.

House Bill 1700 now advances to the state Senate for consideration.

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