Bingham County Proclaims Autism Awareness Month, Law Enforcement Takes Lead

Local agencies implement specialized training and community outreach programs to improve interactions with individuals on the autism spectrum.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 5:12pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a police car siren light in neon shades of blue, pink, and yellow, conceptually representing law enforcement's efforts to enhance training and outreach for individuals with autism.Law enforcement's proactive approach to Autism Awareness Month aims to build stronger community ties and improve emergency response for individuals on the spectrum.Blackfoot Today

Bingham County, Idaho has proclaimed April as Autism Awareness Month, with local law enforcement agencies taking a leading role in the initiative. The county has implemented specialized training for officers and launched a program allowing families to proactively share information about individuals with autism or other challenges, in order to facilitate more informed and compassionate emergency responses.

Why it matters

This effort reflects a growing national focus on improving law enforcement's understanding and response to individuals with autism and mental health needs. By taking a proactive approach, Bingham County aims to build stronger trust between law enforcement and the community, as well as reduce confusion and prevent escalation during emergency calls.

The details

The Autism Awareness Proclamation was spearheaded by Bingham County Commission Clerk Lindsey Gluch, whose son is on the autism spectrum. Through the new community program, people can contact their local agency in advance to provide information about a loved one who may be prone to a mental health crisis or need specific accommodations. This information can then be used by officers when responding to a call, with the goal of adding 'calm to chaos' and preventing further escalation.

  • Bingham County commissioners proclaimed April as Autism Awareness Month.
  • The new community outreach program allowing families to share information has been launched.

The players

Lindsey Gluch

Bingham County Commission Clerk whose son is on the autism spectrum and who spearheaded the Autism Awareness Proclamation.

Whitney Manwaring

Bingham County Commissioner who has a grandson with autism and supported the proclamation.

Jordyn Nebeker

Bingham County Chief Deputy who says the new community program reflects a proactive approach to improving law enforcement's response to individuals with autism or mental health needs.

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What they’re saying

“We're all for it. This issue is personal and hits home with a lot of us.”

— Whitney Manwaring, Bingham County Commissioner

“This is about good leadership and being proactive. If there is a situation, we can go in with information on the front end.”

— Jordyn Nebeker, Bingham County Chief Deputy

What’s next

Families who wish to participate in the new community program can call the county's non-emergency line to provide information about a loved one with autism or other challenges. This information will be accessible to agencies across the county to help ensure a more informed and compassionate emergency response.

The takeaway

Bingham County's proactive approach to Autism Awareness Month, led by local law enforcement, demonstrates a growing national focus on improving how first responders interact with individuals on the autism spectrum or experiencing mental health crises. By building awareness, enhancing training, and strengthening community ties, the county aims to foster greater trust and de-escalate potentially volatile situations.