Legislature Passes Bill to Make Traffic Stops Safer for Both Drivers with Autism and Law Enforcement

Already piloted by the State Police, the program helps drivers with autism communicate while giving officers the information they need to respond effectively

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Legislature on Wednesday passed legislation establishing a statewide ‘blue envelope’ program, giving motorists with autism spectrum disorder a simple, recognizable way to alert police officers to their diagnosis and help guide the interaction before it escalates.

The easily recognizable envelopes can be handed over during a traffic stop by an individual with autism whose ability to communicate is likely to be negatively affected by a stressful situation.

The outside of the blue envelope prominently notes that the person has autism spectrum disorder (ASD), along with guidance on how to effectively interact with them, while the inside features places to store their driver’s license and auto registration.

“Something as simple as a blue envelope can increase the chances that interactions with police are positive, respectful and less stressful for our neurodiverse friends, neighbors, and family members,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “We have already seen the positive impact of blue envelopes in Massachusetts, and by making this a permanent program we are benefiting both drivers and public safety officials. I am grateful to Senator Comerford for tirelessly advocating for this important initiative, to Chairs Crighton and Rodrigues for their work on this bill, and to each of my colleagues for their support.”

“This legislation establishes practical, evidence-based protocols that will ensure clearer communication and enhanced safety during traffic stops that involve individuals with Autism,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Chair Arciero and my colleagues in the House, as well as our partners in the Senate, for recognizing the need for these important reforms.”

“These distinctive blue envelopes foster communication, positive interaction, and trust between people with autism spectrum disorder and our local police,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “The value of these easily recognizable envelopes has already been clearly demonstrated through the successful rollout of a blue envelope program by the State Police, in yet another example of strong collaboration between the Legislature and the Healey-Driscoll administration.”

“Clear communication is essential during any interaction between law enforcement and the public, especially in stressful situations like a traffic stop. The Blue Envelope Program is a simple but impactful tool that helps individuals with autism communicate their needs while providing officers with important information to respond appropriately. This commonsense legislation promotes understanding, reduces anxiety, and helps create safer, more positive interactions for everyone involved. I am proud to support this important initiative for families across the Commonwealth,” said Representative Jessica Ann Giannino (D-Revere).

“This important legislation provides for improved delivery of public safety services to our friends, family members and neighbors with autism. I am proud to have joined my colleagues in supporting this important legislation. If just one misunderstanding on our roadways is resolved because of this legislation, then we as a Commonwealth benefit,” said Representative Jeffrey Rosario Turco (D-Winthrop).

The bill—S.2565, An Act facilitating better interactions between police officers and persons with autism spectrum disorder—would codify the program, which was rolled out by the Massachusetts State Police last year after it was first proposed in the Legislature during the previous legislative session.

The Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) would be responsible for making the envelopes available to people with ASD or their parents or guardians.

“Individuals with autism and their families, law enforcement agencies, and community advocacy groups have voiced their relentless support for the ‘blue envelope’ bill, and we are thrilled to be enacting this legislation today.” said Senator Brendan P. Crighton (D-Lynn), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation. “With this program, we are promoting better communication and safer interactions for both law enforcement and drivers with autism. Thank you to the Senate President for continuing to make this a priority, Senator Comerford for her strong advocacy, and to all those who have continued to speak out and share how impactful this program will be to them and their families.”

“The House and Senate sending the Blue Envelope bill to Governor Healey’s desk today is another huge step towards providing safety and peace of mind to so many across our Commonwealth,” Representative Sean Garballey (D- Arlington), House sponsor of the bill. “I am incredibly grateful to Representative Domb for her partnership and outstanding leadership on this issue. I am also thankful to the many partners who helped pass this but especially Speaker Mariano, Chairman Michlewitz, Chairman Arciero, Senator Comerford, and all of my colleagues in the House. This work could not have been done without our partners at the Arc of Massachusetts and Sam and Ilyse Kanji and all who have been fierce advocates and champions for this common-sense legislation.”

The House of Representatives and the Senate each enacted the bill today, sending it to the Governor for her signature.