PCSO joins ADOT program for drivers on autism spectrum

The Pinal County Sheriff's Office has joined an Arizona Department of Transportation program aimed at enabling better communications between law enforcement and people on the autism spectrum.

PCSO is now part of the "Blue Envelope Program" that provides autistic people with a special envelope where they can keep their pertinent driving information. The ADOT program started in April.

“The Blue Envelope gives drivers on the autism spectrum a single location to hold their vehicle registration and insurance,” ADOT’s website stated. “It includes written instructions to assist both the driver and law enforcement during traffic stops, facilitating clear communication, reducing stress and ensuring safety for everyone involved.”

The envelope provides drivers on the autism spectrum with instructions on how to handle a police stop and law enforcement is given directions on how to identify and communicate with autistic drivers.

The program does not prevent a driver from receiving a citation.

Blue envelopes are available at all ADOT motor vehicle division locations and a limited supply is also available at PCSO substations in Florence, Arizona City, San Manuel, San Tan Valley, Gold Canyon and Casa Grande, PCSO stated in a Facebook post.

The Blue Envelope Program is voluntary and confidential, and ADOT stated that neither MVD nor law enforcement will maintain records or a database of participants.