A thought we often state, which derives from the understanding of our core mission in the Autism Communities, “We are all humans first and foremost”. When a local business has a “no soliciting” sign, it usually serves a purpose to keep other sales people out, but as we look at this from an autism and special needs perspective especially, sellers who approach local businesses in terms of aggressive selling strategies, or “cold calls” can cause panic attacks or even stress to those families with children or adults on the spectrum. Here, we will explain the information regarding no soliciting signs and also lay out some easy to understand explanations for these signs.
Undoubtedly, the signs that say “no soliciting” have different purposes for sellers than it might for the average person, especially those on the spectrum. Big name companies such as Homes 2 Stay, Keller Williams Realty, Gold Star Realty, and many other real estate businesses in Missouri, use these signs at the door to avoid solicitors (which is common practice), and this is very important for the families in our communities to keep in mind.
When you come across these types of signs, here is what you should know: Clearly the “no soliciting” signs are used for different reasons than most of us often think. Whether there is a law in Missouri that protects home owners who put these signs up on their homes or buildings, is a good read that is included in the article we made reference to above: information regarding no soliciting signs. Considering how important only Misdemeanor charges are to our brain power and the way it reacts to stimuli, we are certain many in the Missouri Autism Community will want to be aware of what lies ahead when ignoring these signs as well. The Missouri ‘no soliciting’ sign law to protect home owners in Missouri is the same as anywhere else in the United States. No one can be forced to read or look at these signs that discourage them from approaching the front door of a home or dwelling. So, if a seller chooses to ignore this fact, they may be subjected to legal action by the homeowner, who would be able to pursue a charge for trespassing or harassment if they so desired. Of course, we don’t expect every home owner to assay trespass or harassment, but it’s a great thing to be aware of, especially when working with the autism community.
For caregivers and parents of autistic children and adults, it is likely that the very moment another person approaches your home, they become agitated or stimulated in such a way that their autism behaviors are highly activated. Panic attacks or anxiety can ensue, but the greatest sorrow lies within how they can feel intensely harassed by someone who doesn’t know their needs and will put them under unnecessary stress.
We believe that understanding law as it relates to “no soliciting” signs is extremely important, and we urge everyone within the Missouri Autism Community to read this article about no soliciting signs published at Anam BCN for information about the law, and encouragement to be less afraid of solicitors who sometimes mean no harm.