LITTLE ROCK, Ark.- A new statewide initiative is aiming to make traffic stops safer and less stressful for drivers with autism or mental health issues by improving communication between drivers and law enforcement.
On January 2, drivers gained access to the Blue Envelope Program and the Green Envelope Program, both approved during the 2025 regular session of the Arkansas General Assembly. The programs provide color-coded envelopes that serve as visual cues to officers that a driver or passenger may have communication challenges.
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The blue envelope is designed for people with autism spectrum disorder, while the green envelope is intended for people with “mental illness.” Each envelope is used to hold essential documents such as a driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance. When presented during a traffic stop, the envelope alerts officers that they may need to adjust their approach with that driver.
“The quality of that interaction always comes down to communication,” said Scott Hardin, spokesperson for the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration. “This program is about improving that interaction, and the feedback from law enforcement has been very positive.”…