The Tamaqua Police Department is participating in a voluntary safety initiative to help drivers who have autism, anxiety or other communication challenges.

Through the Blue Envelope program, drivers store important documents — things like their license, registration and insurance — in bright blue envelopes.

The packets can be turned over to police during traffic stops or other incidents.

“The envelope alerts officers that the person may have communication or sensory difficulties,” Tamaqua Police Chief Michael Hobbs said. “It gives drivers a simple way to communicate during a traffic stop, while also helping our officers better understand their needs.”

The blue envelopes are provided through a partnership with the Lehigh Valley Health Network and are available from the Tamaqua Police Department.

Tamaqua Mayor Dave Clemson worked with and Hobbs to secure the envelopes.

“It’s a great program,” Clemson said.

He noted that he already had inquiries about it.

“I actually have a friend whose son is autistic,” Clemson said. “As soon as we got the envelopes in, I let her know and she came down and picked one up.”

But Clemson said it’s not only for those on the autism spectrum.

“Anybody who gets pulled over is nervous,” Clemson said. “So it’s nice to have this and say, ‘Here’s all my stuff at once,’ instead of fumbling for everything.”

The front of the envelope notes that the driver is on the autism spectrum and indicates whether they are verbal or nonverbal, according to LVHN. It includes instructions on what the driver should do during a traffic stop.

And on the back of the envelope, there are tips for police to help with their interaction.

“It provides instruction for both the officer and the driver so it helps reduce stress and confusion,” Hobbs said. “Our goal is to create a safer, more supportive environment for everyone in our community.”

The envelopes are available in English and Spanish.