The Northborough Police Department is proud to be participating in the Blue Envelope Program, which aims to improve interactions between law enforcement and individuals on the autism spectrum. The Blue Envelope Program was created via a partnership among the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, Massachusetts State Police, Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts, and The Arc of Massachusetts, along with input from individuals with autism and their families. The project offers a blue envelope to any driver on the autism spectrum. The driver can store their vital driving documents — vehicle registration, driver’s license, and a contact card — in an easy-to-find envelope that can be provided to police in the event of a traffic stop. The outside of each envelope contains tips and instructions that will guide law enforcement members who encounter someone on the autism spectrum. The goals of the program are to enhance understanding among police, reduce anxiety for drivers on the autism spectrum, streamline communication between police and those on the spectrum even in potentially high-stress situations like traffic stops, and encourage preparedness on the part of individuals on the autism spectrum. The blue envelopes are available at the Northborough Police Department or any state police barracks.
