Legislature Approves “Blue Envelope” Program to Make Traffic Stops Safer for Drivers with Autism and Police

BOSTON—State Senator Jason Lewis, House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones Jr., and State Representative Richard Haggerty joined their colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature to establish a permanent, statewide “blue envelope” program, giving drivers with autism spectrum disorder a simple, clear way to alert police officers of their diagnosis to help guide their interactions.

The easily recognizable blue 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, along with guidance on how to effectively interact with them, while the inside features places to store their driver’s license and auto registration.

“The blue envelope program is a simple and highly effective way to make traffic stops safer for drivers and law enforcement,” said Senator Jason Lewis. “Since the Massachusetts State Police first started testing the program, blue envelopes have been seen to improve communication and reduce stress, and I’m grateful that we’re taking the next step to make this a permanent policy.”

“The blue envelope program will help to eliminate misunderstandings and defuse potentially volatile situations between police and individuals with autism,” said House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr., who co-sponsored an earlier version of the bill, Senate 2348. “By codifying this program, we can ensure that it is standardized and effectively implemented across the Commonwealth.”

“This legislation addresses an important need for clearer communication between police officers and drivers with autism during traffic stops,” said Representative Richard Haggerty. “It gives drivers a clear way to communicate with police and gives officers helpful guidance on how to respond. It’s a practical step that supports both drivers and law enforcement across the Commonwealth.”

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

After passing in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, this legislation was signed into law on June 25, 2026 by Governor Maura Healey.