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Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara is proposing a bill to expand the Blue Envelope Program across New York State. The program provides drivers with autism a blue envelope containing important information to present during traffic stops, aiming to improve interactions with law enforcement. Santabarbara, who chairs the Assembly’s Standing Committee on People with Disabilities, believes this expansion will make New York a leader in creating safer communities for individuals with autism and other communication challenges.
The Blue Envelope Program, initially implemented by the New York State Sheriff’s Association, offers a simple solution for drivers to share their needs discreetly and for officers to receive clear guidelines, reducing potential misunderstandings. Santabarbara, who has a son with autism, has been a strong advocate for disability initiatives, including the creation of New York’s first Disability ID Card and autism training for first responders.
He expressed his support for the program, stating, "Together, we can continue creating a more inclusive and accessible New York, where every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive." The proposed bill also calls for consistent training for law enforcement officers to ensure the program's effectiveness statewide.
According to the New York State Assembly website, Santabarbara commended the New York State Sheriff’s Association for their leadership and looks forward to supporting the program's expansion.