BILL NUMBER: S8673
SPONSOR: FAHY
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to providing
"blue envelopes" to individuals with autism spectrum disorder
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
Directs the department of motor vehicles commissioner to offer, upon
request, a "blue envelope" to a person who has autism spectrum disorder
in order to facilitate clear and safe communication with law enforcement
and provide ease of access to a driver's documentation.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 amends the vehicle and traffic law to add a new section 401-c
that establishes the blue envelope program.
Section 2 establishes the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
This legislation would authorize the department of motor vehicles, in
consultation with the state police to design and issue blue envelopes
that will facilitate safe and clear communication between law enforce-
ment and individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The envelope will
contain the driver's license, registration, and insurance, providing
ease of access to law enforcement. Its exterior will signal clear commu-
nication to law enforcement allowing for a tailored communication style
between parties.
Traffic stops can be particularly stressful for individuals with autism
spectrum disorder. The envelope provides an initial and clear visual cue
that can immediately provide law enforcement with the information they
need to lead a positive interaction. Individuals with autism spectrum
disorder feel more prepared and secure having their documentation readi-
ly available.
Currently, Massachusetts has implemented a similar program that has
fostered communication between the state's police and autism spectrum
disorder community. New York currently issues standardized identifica-
tion cards that communicate their diagnosis. This program would inte-
grate the department of motor vehicles and state police for the purpose
of improving awareness and streamlining communication especially involv-
ing the production of documents during stops.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred and eightieth day after it
shall become .a law.