GREENFIELD, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — The Massachusetts State Police have partnered with Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts to launch the Blue Envelope Program, an initiative to foster a safer and more understanding environment during traffic stops for drivers with autism. Envelopes are available online, at State Police Barracks, and the Greenfield Police Department has announced they will also have envelopes available.
From the Massachusetts State Police:
Members of the Massachusetts State Police will attend this morning’s Autism Advocacy Day event at the State House to unveil our new Blue Envelope Program, an initiative to foster a safer and more understanding environment during traffic stops for drivers with autism.
The program includes a state-issued blue envelope that holds a driver’s essential documents—license, registration, and a contact card. In addition, information printed on the envelope’s exterior identifies the operator as a person with autism spectrum disorder, provides instructions for a police officer on how to enhance communication with the driver, and how to reduce anxiety and stress the driver may be experiencing as a result of being stopped or involved in an incident. The envelope also lists guidelines for the driver, including what to expect during a traffic stop and how to present the Blue Envelope to the officer.
The envelopes will be available at no cost at all State Police Barracks and online, beginning today.
The Blue Envelope Program is the result of a partnership between the Massachusetts State Police, the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts, The Arc of Massachusetts, and individuals with autism and their families.