Rep. Jack Lewis Votes to Promote Safety and Understanding in Traffic Stops

(Framingham) Representative Jack Patrick Lewis joined his House colleagues in supporting legislation establishing a statewide ‘blue envelope’ program, which would give motorists with autism spectrum disorder a simple, recognizable way to alert police officers to their diagnosis and help guide a traffic stop before it escalates.

“This commonsense measure promotes safety during interactions between police and those with autism,” expressed Rep. Lewis (Framingham). “I am grateful to the sponsors of this legislation for their caretaking and appreciate House and Senate Leadership for their focus on this issue.”

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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,” noted Senate President Karen E. Spilka (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,” expressed House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (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,” noted Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (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.”

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.

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