Flashing lights approaching behind our vehicle give all of us a little jolt – no matter the situation. That anxiety is often amplified for drivers and passengers with disabilities, whose ability to communicate with police and other first responders may be affected by their disability. Thousands of Ohioans know this feeling – and a simple blue envelope can help.

The Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities has teamed up with the Southern Ohio Council of Governments (SOCOG) to launch the Blue Envelope Program in Franklin County. The program makes it easier for people with developmental disabilities to convey basic information during interactions with law enforcement and emergency personnel.

“By fostering better communication between law enforcement and individuals with disabilities, it builds a safer, more inclusive community for everyone,” said SOCOG Executive Director Kelly Rosler.

The program packets include the Blue Envelope, Blue Envelope Car Decal, and Blue Envelope Wallet Card.

• The Blue Envelope has space on the outside for information about the disability and/or medical conditions of the driver or passenger. A copy of ID/driver’s license, vehicle registration, and vehicle insurance card can be kept inside the envelope to give to a law enforcement officer during a traffic stop, or for first responders to access in the event of an accident.
• The Blue Envelope Car Decal features a small logo that can be placed on a vehicle’s windows to discreetly communicate to law enforcement and first responders that the occupants participate in the Blue Envelope Program.
• The Blue Envelope Wallet Card is for people who want a method of communication they can carry in their pocket or purse. It’s a smaller version of the envelope that can be used anywhere.

“Disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, dementia, physical disability, or mental health conditions may require additional accommodation or awareness during a law enforcement interaction,” said SOAG co-coordinator Travis Dresbach. “It’s amazing that something as simple as an envelope can do so much.”

Blue Envelope packets are available during regular business hours at Franklin County DD, 2879 Johnstown Rd, and at Franklin County DD Service Coordination, 1600 Watermark Dr.  The program is free at participating county boards to anyone with a developmental disability.

Designed by the San Diego Sheriff’s Department, the Blue Envelope program was first introduced in Ohio in 2024 through the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s office.

Franklin County DD’s participation in the Blue Envelope Program is supported by a collaboration of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council, Southern Ohio Council of Governments, and the Southern Ohio Advocacy Group.