In the last legislative session, Virginia adopted a law that seeks to improve communication between law enforcement and drivers who are on the autism spectrum. Known colloquially as the “blue envelope” law, it enables drivers with Autism Spectrum Disorder to have specific requests to share with law enforcement when there is any kind of encounter. The information in contained is a specially designed envelope to alert law enforcement that special consideration may be needed.
HB 1097 (Laufer) expands on that protection by including in the provisions of that law “compulsory in-service training” for law enforcement, a necessary next step.
There are many other proposals being considered that would impact interactions between people with autism and law enforcement or the courts. Stay tuned for future updates with more information!
Our mission is to advance independence, choice and self-determination; protect legal, human and civil rights; and eliminate abuse, neglect and discrimination of people with disabilities through zealous and uncompromising legal advocacy and representation. We are available to educate policy makers about the potential impact of legislative proposals. Please let us know of any legislation that you think we should be following, by emailing us at ga@dlcv.org