Blue Envelope Program

Tompkins County Sheriff Derek R. Osborne has announced the adoption of the Blue Envelope Program, a safety initiative aimed at supporting drivers with autism. Sheriff Osborne explained that individuals with autism may have physical or verbal responses during a traffic stop that may be misunderstood by law enforcement officers. This can sometimes lead to unfortunate incidents where the driver’s actions are misinterpreted.

To mitigate such issues, the Blue Envelope Program has been introduced. It encourages drivers with autism to keep important documents such as their license, registration, and insurance in a Blue Envelope. When the officer observes the envelope, they are immediately alerted to the driver’s condition and can adjust their response to the situation accordingly.

Along with clear instructions for the driver, explanatory information is printed on the envelope for the law enforcement officer, to include an emergency contact. 

The New York State Sheriffs’ Association is promoting this program statewide, with many sheriff’s offices, including Tompkins County, participating. Drivers can pick up the Blue Envelopes at the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office at 779 Warren Road, Ithaca, NY.