A routine traffic stop can be a stressful moment for any driver. For someone with autism, it can be overwhelming. Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti and the Scranton Police Department are hoping a bright blue envelope can change that.
Mayor Cognetti is pleased to announce the official launch of the Blue Envelope Program, a new initiative in partnership with the Scranton Police Department that is designed to improve communication and promote safer, more positive interactions between law enforcement officers and individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other communication-related disabilities or conditions.
The voluntary program provides drivers with a bright blue envelope that holds their driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and emergency contact information. During a traffic stop, accident, or other interaction with law enforcement, presenting the Blue Envelope immediately alerts officers that the driver may have communication challenges and provides guidance for both the driver and the officer to help ensure a calm, respectful, and safe encounter.
“Every resident deserves to feel safe, respected, and understood during interactions with law enforcement,” Mayor Cognetti said. “The Blue Envelope Program is a simple but meaningful way to reduce anxiety, improve communication, and help officers better understand the needs of the people they serve. It also reflects our commitment to making Scranton a more welcoming and inclusive city where everyone can feel confident that they will be treated with dignity and respect.”
While the program was developed primarily for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, it is also intended to benefit residents living with anxiety disorders, dementia, developmental disabilities, or other conditions that may make communication during stressful situations more difficult.
“Our officers are committed to serving every member of our community with professionalism, compassion and respect,” Scranton Police Chief Tom Carroll said. “The Blue Envelope Program gives our officers valuable information that can help reduce misunderstandings and create a calmer, safer interaction for everyone involved. It is another example of community policing in action and strengthens the trust we continue to build with the residents we serve.”
The Blue Envelope is designed to be kept inside a driver’s vehicle with their driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. During a traffic stop or other encounter with law enforcement, drivers can notify the officer that they have a Blue Envelope and present it when requested. The outside of the envelope contains easy-to-follow guidance for both the driver and responding officer, while the enclosed information sheet provides emergency contact information and explains that the individual may require additional time to process questions or respond to instructions.
“This Blue Envelope is a great tool to put at ease the fears individuals with disability and their families have when learning how to drive and if and when a traffic stop or accident could occur,” said Roseann Polishan the Lead Advocate from ARC of NEPA .
Blue Envelopes are available free of charge at Scranton Police Department Headquarters, 100 South Washington Avenue, Scranton. Participation in the program is voluntary and confidential. There is no documentation required to receive an envelope, and family members or caregivers may also obtain one on behalf of a participating driver.
ABOUT THE CITY OF SCRANTON: Incorporated in 1866, the City of Scranton has a population of approximately 76,000 residents and is the sixth-largest municipality in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Scranton City Hall is located at 340 N. Washington Ave., Scranton, PA 18503. Residents requiring services should visit www.scrantonpa.gov
ABOUT MAYOR PAIGE G. COGNETTI: Paige G. Cognetti was sworn in as the 36th Mayor of Scranton in January 2020 and took her third Oath of Office in January 2026. Her administration is focused on public safety, driving economic growth, upgrading infrastructure, government transparency and efficiency, and improving residents’ overall quality of life
Last modified: August 10, 2026
