Garden State Times

The Camden County Prosecutor's Office, along with Camden County Commissioners, has announced the launch of the Blue Envelope Initiative, aimed at improving traffic safety for individuals with special needs during traffic stops. This new measure seeks to enhance communication between law enforcement and drivers with autism spectrum disorder, providing officers with a clearer understanding of the individual’s needs.

The initiative will involve the use of blue informational envelopes containing crucial details and instructions for law enforcement, facilitating safer communication during traffic stops. Camden County Prosecutor Grace MacAulay commented on the program, saying, "This simple, effective approach for alerting officers that drivers have special needs during traffic stops is a victory for common sense and public safety."

The program aims to mitigate stress and anxiety for drivers with autism by improving communication and understanding during law enforcement interactions. Guidelines on the envelope will offer practical tips to officers to assist in deescalating high-stress situations.

"This is another great example of the community and law enforcement coming together to fill a need with the special needs population," stated Camden County Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr.

Participation in the initiative could allow officers to access additional information via a driver’s registration with the national Public Safety Alliance for Individuals with Disabilities (A.I.D.) program, which has integrated the Camden County Special Needs Registry into its service.

Bill and Gloria Jensen, founders of Luke’s Place, expressed their support, noting that the program aligns with their mission to serve neurodiverse young adults. "This innovative initiative will help raise awareness and facilitate a safer and specialized interaction," said Bill Jensen.

Regional healthcare institutions have also voiced their support, with Dr. Joseph Montella of Cooper University Health Care and Gregory Pease from Virtua Health noting the initiative’s alignment with their community service objectives.

The New Jersey Autism Study in 2020 reported that 1 in 35 children aged 8 years and 1 in 40 children aged 4 years in New Jersey were identified as autistic. Gloucester Township Police Chief David Harkins emphasized the importance of the program for providing officers with effective tools to recognize and assist individuals with autism, aiming for safer law enforcement interactions.