TALLAHASSEE, FL – Today, Florida Senator Shevrin Jones (SD-34) bill to create a Blue Envelope Program and make interactions safer between people with autism and law enforcement during roadside interactions passed the Criminal Justice committee unanimously.
SB 418/HB 365 aims to improve communications by requiring the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to develop and make available to individuals with autism spectrum disorder an envelope intended to hold a copy of their driver license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and emergency contact information that can be provided to officers during vehicle-related interactions.
“As we’ve seen in other states, the Blue Envelope Program is a straightforward and effective tool designed to assist officers and emergency personnel in recognizing and adapting their approach when interacting with a driver with autism or other special needs who may experience heightened anxiety or other communication challenges,” Sen. Jones said. “This will help our police and emergency service personnel identify individuals’ needs and limit misunderstandings. Now more than ever, we must promote empathy, understanding, and patience to keep all Floridians safe.”
Additionally, the legislation seeks to strengthen training components for law enforcement officers, ensuring informed instruction and techniques to protect the rights of the individual, recognize the individual’s personal agency, and properly de-escalate potentially dangerous situations.
“This bill is about dignity and safety,” said Rep. Valdés. “By giving our officers the right tools and information, and providing the ASD community with a simple, recognizable way to communicate, we can prevent misunderstandings and ensure every traffic stop ends safely for everyone involved. This is truly a win for all Floridians.”
