Senate Approves Permanent Blue Envelope Program Supporting People with Autism

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Senate unanimously passed an act making permanent the blue envelope program first advanced by the Senate last year. The bill will now be sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Blue envelopes prevent miscommunication and promote better understanding during traffic stops that involve a person with autism spectrum disorder. The Senate unanimously approved a similar bill in January 2024, and the Massachusetts State Police then proactively implemented a blue envelope program last spring. This bill, S.2558, would write the practice into state law.

The outside of the envelope notes that the person has autism spectrum disorder. It also prominently features guidance about how to best interact with an individual with autism whose ability to communicate is likely to be negatively affected by a stressful situation. Inside the envelope, there are places to store the individual’s driver’s license and vehicle registration. Individuals with autism, or their parents or guardians, can request the envelopes from the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

“This is a monumental step toward fostering a safer and more inclusive environment for neurodiverse individuals across the Commonwealth,” state Sen. Adam Gómez said. “By making the blue envelope program a permanent fixture in Massachusetts law, we are ensuring that individuals on the autism spectrum have the tools they need to communicate effectively during traffic stops, thereby reducing misunderstandings and promoting mutual respect between law enforcement and the communities they serve.”