On Tuesday, June 24, The Arc of Massachusetts was pleased to testify in support of the blue envelope bill, which is one of our top priorities. The Arc has led the advocacy on this bill for several years and has worked collaboratively with Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts (AFAM) and partners in law enforcement to roll out thousands of blue envelopes already.
This bill ensures that the success of the ongoing blue envelope program can be well-understood and consistently applied across Massachusetts. Drivers or passengers with autism and police officers alike deserve this simple tool to help foster communication and facilitate successful encounters. It is time for Massachusetts to pass this common sense bill.
As CEO Maura Sullivan stated in her testimony, “Although my own sons will never be drivers, I understand deeply the profound worry a parent carries when they are not present to help explain, advocate for, and protect their autistic loved one.”
Thank you to all who testified, to Transportation Committee chairs Representative James Arciero and Senator Brendan Crighton, and to bill sponsors Senator Jo Comerford, Representative Mindy Domb, and Representative Sean Garballey.
