PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — The Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has officially launched a statewide initiative aimed at improving communication between drivers with autism and police officers. Drivers with autism can now opt into the DMV's "Blue Envelope" program. The voluntary program provides eligible drivers with a blue envelope to keep in their glove box. The blue envelope contains a copy of their driver's license, vehicle registration, insurance details and an emergency contact card. It also comes with clear instructions on how to navigate a traffic stop and interact with a police officer in a safe manner. The driver can then inform police officers of their neurological disability simply by handing them the blue envelope that contains their information. "We welcome all opportunities to make Rhode Island roads safer," DMV Administrator Walter Craddock said. "The Blue Envelope program will ease communication between neurodivergent drivers and law enforcement. We encourage any affected Rhode Islander to get the envelope during their next appointment with us." Left to right: DMV Administrator Walter Craddock, Sen. Victoria Gu and Rep. Samuel Azzinaro. (Courtesy: RI DMV) The DMV said police officers across Rhode Island have been trained on the program and best practices for effectively communicating with neurodivergent drivers during traffic stops. The statewide Blue Envelope program, sponsored by Rep. Samuel Azzinaro and Sen. Victoria Gu, was signed into law last year and enacted earlier this month. Their proposal was modeled after similar initiatives in Connecticut and New Jersey. "Just because an individual is on the autism spectrum does not make them incapable of navigating daily life, including being able to drive a vehicle," Azzinaro said. "The situation that tends to arise though is a difficulty in communicating with law enforcement if the individual is pulled over for speeding or for another traffic infraction." "This [law] will help law enforcement recognize the situation, allowing them to do their job while also being respectful of the needs of the individual with autism," he continued. Azzinaro and Gu were inspired to propose creating the program thanks to Westerly High School student Toby Silva, who learned about similar initiatives while conducting research for his senior project. "During that time, I learned I have autism," Silva explained. "I learned that having autism is the reason that I sometimes do unexpected things. I wanted to make Rhode Island a safer place for other neurodivergent people who may also behave in unexpected ways." Westerly Police Chief Paul Gingerella commended Silva for being "involved from start to finish." "The legislative process can be long, but he was determined to make a difference and he was instrumental in bringing this initiative ... across the finish line," Gingerella said. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW