DOVER – In an effort to ease communication between drivers with disabilities and law enforcement during traffic stops, Representative DeShanna Neal and Senator Dan Cruce introduced legislation Thursday to codify the Blue Envelope Program in the State of Delaware.
The Blue Envelope Program was first introduced in Connecticut in January 2020. Since then, it’s been adopted by many cities, municipalities, and states across the country.
In August, Delaware began participating in the program, led in partnership by the Delaware State Police, Delaware Association of Chiefs of Police, University of Delaware Center for Disabilities Studies, Office of Highway Safety, and the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.
Currently, Delaware drivers and family members can participate in the program by visiting their local Delaware State Police Troop or participating police agency to pick up an envelope. Once obtained, participants are instructed to place their driver’s license, vehicle registration, car insurance, and other related documents inside the envelope, as well as important information about their disability and instructions for First Responders who they may interact with.
HB 277 does not make any changes to the program itself, it just ensures that it will remain active in Delaware as an official part of the State Code.
“It was the concern of a constituent who made me realize that I too needed to ensure my adult autistic child didn’t have to worry about being misunderstood while driving. Traffic stops are already stressful and if you are someone with any disability, they can be so much more intense,” said Rep. DeShanna Neal.
“The Blue Envelope program will provide safety and empathy for both our law enforcement officers and drivers. I’m glad to have partnered with Delaware State Police, the UD Center for Disabilities, and the Office of Highway Safety on such an important initiative.”
On average, police pull over about 50,000 drivers every day across the country. Amongst those drivers can include those on the autism spectrum, with hearing impairments, or other disabilities that hinder their ability to communicate effectively in a high-stress situation, such as a traffic stop.
Using a Blue Envelope immediately signals to law enforcements that the driver may have communication differences, sensory need(s), mobility limitations or other differences related to their disability, and may use or need additional supports.
“The Blue Envelope Program is rooted in the safety and dignity of our neighbors, while fostering an understanding between both law enforcement and drivers living with disabilities. This legislation codifies a simple, effective tool that reduces confusion and stress during traffic stops,” said Senator Dan Cruce.
“Clear communication can save lives, and this bill prioritizes compassion while ensuring our officers can do their jobs safely and respectfully.”
Under HB 277, the Blue Envelope must meet the following:
- Be capable of containing a person’s driver’s license, motor vehicle registration certificate, insurance identification card, and other relevant documents.
- Provide written information on the outside of the envelope identifying the envelope holder as a person with a disability.
- Provide written guidance for law-enforcement regarding interactions with a person with a disability.
- Provide written guidance for a person with a disability for safely interacting with law-enforcement during a traffic stop.
HB 277 has been assigned to the House Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee.
