Mount Olive police remind public of Blue Envelope program during Autism Awareness Month
MOUNT OLIVE TOWNSHIP, NJ (Morris County) –In recognition of Autism Awareness Month in April, Chief Michael Spitzer and the Mount Olive Police Department are reminding the community of their ongoing participation in the ‘Blue Envelope Program.’
This initiative is designed to improve communication between law enforcement officers and individuals with autism during motor vehicle stops and crash investigations.
The Blue Envelope Program helps facilitate peaceful and effective communication by providing officers with critical information about individuals on the autism spectrum. Families with a member who has autism are encouraged to pick up a Blue Envelope at the police dispatch window, available 24/7. The envelope contains important details to help officers understand the unique needs of individuals with autism, ensuring smoother interactions.
Additionally, the Mount Olive Police Department continues to support a program introduced by the New Jersey Department of Human Services, the Office of the Attorney General, and the Motor Vehicle Commission. This program allows individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or communication disorders to voluntarily register a discreet notation on their driver’s license or non-driver ID card. A “pink card” is also issued, further indicating the individual’s diagnosis to assist officers in recognizing special communication needs.
Governor Phil Murphy signed the legislation (S761) into law on May 15, 2023, which mandates the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) to implement the notation system. Both the driver’s license or ID card and the pink card should be carried during any vehicle interaction to alert law enforcement officers.
For more information about the Blue Envelope Program or the ASD/communication disorder designation, families can contact SupportServices@mopd.org or visit autismnj.org for further resources.
