Free tool will help improve communication during traffic stops and other interactions with law enforcement
BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey today launched the statewide Blue Envelope Program, a free and voluntary program designed to support safer, more effective communication between law enforcement officers and people with autism.
Beginning today, Blue Envelopes are available at all Registry of Motor Vehicles Service Centers, participating AAA locations and through an online mail request form.
“People with autism and their families deserve to feel safe and understood when they interact with law enforcement,” said Governor Maura Healey. “By helping residents communicate their needs and giving officers useful guidance, the Blue Envelope can prevent misunderstandings and make traffic stops safer for everyone. I’m grateful to our police officers for their partnership and commitment to making this program work across Massachusetts.”
“A traffic stop can be stressful for anyone, especially when a driver and an officer communicate differently,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “By making Blue Envelopes available across Massachusetts, we’re helping people with autism and their families feel more prepared while giving officers another tool to support safe, respectful interactions.”
The bright blue envelope can hold a driver’s license, vehicle registration, contact card, and other important information. During a traffic stop or other interaction, the envelope alerts an officer that the driver or passenger may communicate, process information or respond differently. Guidance printed on the envelope helps officers adjust their approach.
Governor Healey signed legislation establishing the statewide program in June. The law builds on a voluntary initiative launched by the Massachusetts State Police in 2024 and expands access to Blue Envelopes through the RMV.
“The Blue Envelope Program continues the Commonwealth’s longstanding commitment to foster trust and supports successful interactions with members of the autism community,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon. “We deeply appreciate the Governor’s leadership to sign this bill into law, and the Registry of Motor Vehicles’ work to make this resource readily available to their customers. Raising awareness of this important communication tool will continue to build trust between law enforcement and our neighbors within this important community.”
“The Blue Envelope Program is a practical and meaningful way to foster safer and more effective interactions between law enforcement and individuals with autism,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “By making these envelopes widely available through the RMV, AAA locations, and an online request process, we are helping individuals and families feel more prepared and confident while giving officers useful information that they can use to support positive interactions and outcomes.”
“The Blue Envelope Program provides a supportive tool for individuals with autism to communicate with law enforcement, creating more understanding and making traffic stops safer for them,” said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie. “We’re pleased to take this innovative program piloted by the Massachusetts State Police and make it available statewide in support of our ongoing efforts to make RMV services accessible and inclusive to all residents.”
Any Massachusetts resident with autism may request a Blue Envelope. Residents may request more than one envelope, including envelopes for use in different vehicles. Parents and guardians may also request envelopes for minors or individuals in their care. No medical records, diagnosis documentation, or other verification is required and there is no fee to participate in the program.
Residents can keep the envelope on the driver’s-side sun visor or in another visible, easy-to-reach location. During an interaction with law enforcement, the driver or passenger can present the envelope to the officer along with the documents stored inside.
For additional information about the Blue Envelope Program, visit the MA RMV website.
