Marblehead, MA: Police start autism project for better interaction
- The end of childhood
- 12 hours ago
- 2 min read
June 2, 2025, Patch: Marblehead Police To Join Autism Blue Envelope Project
Marblehead will become the latest community on the North Shore to participate in the Blue Envelope Project — a program designed to improve interactions between law enforcement and those on the autism spectrum.
The Blue Envelope Project 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.
"And, while this program enhances communications between the officer and the person involved, it is voluntary and confidential to those who participate."
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 to 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 to encourage preparedness on the part of individuals on the autism spectrum.
This is the first time the Marblehead Police Department has participated in the program.
Since the program is sponsored and has been adapted by the Massachusetts State Police, Marblehead residents utilizing the program can experience continuity in future traffic stops, whether it is local or state police initiating the interaction.
The blue envelopes are available at any state police barracks and at the Marblehead Police Station.
