Statement from The Arc of Massachusetts CEO Maura Sullivan:
“The Arc of Massachusetts applauds the Massachusetts House of Representatives for the passage of the Blue Envelope bill, a legislative priority of The Arc.
This crucial legislation will provide a simple, effective tool to help drivers and passengers with autism feel more confident and safer during traffic stops or accidents, while also enabling Massachusetts Police to better engage with and assist them. The blue envelope holding driving and vehicle documents signifies to law enforcement that the driver or passenger has autism and may also have difficulty communicating.
We are deeply grateful to Representative Mindy Domb and Representative Sean Garballey for their unwavering leadership in championing the Blue Envelope, and to Speaker Ronald Mariano and Chair Aaron Michlewitz for bringing this bill to the floor for a vote. We appreciate the opportunity to work with members of Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts and hundreds of other advocates and stakeholders on this bill.
The Arc looks forward to seeing the bill enacted into law and remains dedicated to promoting the Blue Envelope to foster a safer, more inclusive community for individuals across the autism spectrum.”
