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The bill will allow drivers with autism to carry an envelope containing their license, registration, and information about their diagnosis.
The “blue envelope” bill, which aims to aid communication between motorists on the autism spectrum and police officers, was enacted Monday by Massachusetts legislators.
Under the statewide program, drivers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can carry a blue envelope in their vehicle containing their license, registration, and information about their diagnosis, according to the bill text.
People with autism can experience emotional dysregulation, which can impact communication skills and stress management. In potentially stressful situations such as traffic stops, having this information on hand can ease interactions between drivers and police officers who may not be aware of their diagnosis, according to Sen. Jo Comerford, who spearheaded the bill in the Senate.
“Enacting the Blue Envelope Bill is a major win for the Commonwealth and for individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder,” Comerford said in a press release. “Enshrining the Blue Envelope program in law will help ensure safer, more informed interactions during traffic stops and emergencies, making permanent a simple but powerful tool for both drivers and emergency responders.”
The Blue Envelope program was adopted last year by the Massachusetts State Police in partnership with the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association and advocacy organizations The Arc of Massachusetts and Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts. The newly-enacted legislation would officially codify the program statewide.
The issued blue envelope is meant to be displayed in the driver’s side sun visor and contains all the necessary documents in the event of an emergency or other stressful situation, according to State Police. The information about the driver’s diagnosis, which includes text and a QR code, is written on the outside of the envelope so police officers or first responders are immediately aware.
Currently, the envelopes are only available by visiting a State Police barracks in person or requesting one to be delivered by mail via an online form. The act will task the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) with the responsibility of making them available to people with autism or their parents or guardians, according to the press release.
Additionally, the bill directs municipal police training committees to add instruction on the program to their specialized curricula. Though the RMV will issue the envelopes, State Police will design them, according to the bill text.
The bill passed unanimously in the Senate in July 2025 and awaited action from the House of Representatives until May 20, when it again passed unanimously, according to action records. It was enacted by both branches Monday and now needs the approval of Gov. Maura Healey. If Healey signs it into law, it will take effect July 1, according to the bill text.
“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,” Senate President Karen Spilka said in the press release. “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.”
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