New Britain Township Police implement Blue Envelope Program for drivers with ASD

New Britain Township Police has taken a new step toward interacting safely with drivers with autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, during traffic stops with the Blue Envelope Program.

The program, which is modeled after a program that was first developed and distributed in Connecticut, has been adopted by police agencies in Bucks and Montgomery counties, and in other states.

The Blue Envelope provides written information and guidance on enhancing effective communication between police officers and persons with ASD. 

The primary goal of the Blue Envelope Program, police said, is to assist drivers with ASD with document organization and to help them understand what to do on a motor vehicle stop. 

The envelope's instructions warn the driver that the officer might have a radio and flashing lights on their patrol car. The instructions also direct the driver to keep his or her hands on the steering wheel until they receive further instructions from the officer, police said. 

The directions detail the process of events that should occur during the stop and how the driver should respond. 

The Blue Envelope also provides police with the means to quickly identify an operator of a motor vehicle who has ASD and helps to guide them with the interaction. 

The police's section of the envelope explains some behaviors that the driver might exhibit, including repetitive body movements and signs of high anxiety, according to police. 

Officers are also instructed to allow the driver extra time to respond, to use the most simplistic language possible and to clearly tell the driver when he or she can leave the scene. 

The ASD driver can place a copy of their driver’s license, registration and insurance cards inside the envelope for quick access. The envelope also contains an emergency contact form for the ASD driver. 

The Blue Envelopes are available for pick up at the New Britain Township Police Department located at 207 Park Ave, Chalfont.