Petition to Governor Mike DeWine: Mandate Statewide Implementation of the Blue Envelope Project in Ohio

To: The Honorable Governor Mike DeWine
Riffe Center, 30th Floor
77 South High Street
Columbus, OH 43215-6117

Dear Governor DeWine,

We, the undersigned citizens of Ohio, respectfully petition your office to take immediate action in mandating the implementation of the Blue Envelope Project across all law enforcement agencies in the State of Ohio.

The Blue Envelope Project is a proven initiative designed to enhance communication and safety during traffic stops between law enforcement officers and individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), cognitive disabilities, or other conditions that can affect verbal or behavioral responses. The program provides a simple, yet profoundly impactful, solution: a blue envelope containing important documentation such as the driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance, emergency contact information, and a brief note explaining the individual's condition and potential communication barriers.

The Blue Envelope empowers officers to respond with understanding and patience, and it helps drivers feel more prepared and secure during an interaction that may otherwise cause confusion, anxiety, or distress. Several states and local municipalities have already successfully implemented this initiative, resulting in improved safety outcomes and increased trust between police officers and the communities they serve.

Despite Ohio's commitment to inclusivity and public safety, the adoption of this program has been inconsistent and optional, leading to unequal access and implementation across jurisdictions.

By mandating the Blue Envelope Project statewide, Ohio would:

• Promote equity in law enforcement interactions for neurodiverse and cognitively impaired individuals.
• Increase officer awareness and preparedness for non-standard responses during traffic stops.
• Reduce misunderstandings and minimize the risk of escalations.
• Demonstrate Ohio’s commitment to compassionate, community-focused policing.

We urge you to support legislation or executive action requiring all Ohio police departments to offer and recognize the Blue Envelope Project. This initiative aligns with the values of justice, dignity, and public safety for all Ohioans.

Thank you for your leadership and continued efforts to make our state a safer, more inclusive place for every citizen.