A new tool is being use by law enforcement agencies here in Rutherford County, and it’s designed with one goal in mind: making traffic stops safer and less stressful for autistic drivers. The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office Community Engagement Unit is partnering with the KTG Foundation of Harriman, Tennessee, to offer free “blue envelopes” that drivers can keep in their vehicles.
The idea is simple but powerful. When an autistic driver is pulled over, they can hand the officer the blue envelope, which immediately signals that the driver may communicate differently and may need extra time or support. Inside the envelope is guidance for both the driver and the officer—everything from how the driver prefers to communicate (spoken words, sign language, pictures, an electronic device, or writing) to what behaviors the officer might observe.
Because flashing blue lights, radio chatter, and the stress of the moment can heighten sensory overload, officers are reminded that autistic drivers may show signs of anxiety, fidgeting, repetitive movements, or unusual eye contact. They may also respond to authority figures in ways that seem unexpected. The envelope encourages officers to slow down, speak simply, and allow the driver additional time to process instructions. If the driver becomes overwhelmed, the officer can call the emergency contact listed inside the packet.
The blue envelopes are available for free at the Sheriff’s Office Community Engagement Unit at 940 New Salem Highway in Murfreesboro.
Alongside this local effort, the Tennessee Department of Revenue offers another safety tool: the Precious Cargo program. This voluntary designation adds a private note to a vehicle’s registration, alerting officers and emergency responders that someone in the vehicle has a disability or medical condition that may affect communication or behavior. It’s designed to help not only autistic individuals but also people with Alzheimer’s disease, Down syndrome, and other conditions.
To enroll, applicants complete a short form, have a doctor fill out the medical section, and return the signed document to their county clerk. The form is available through the Tennessee Department of Revenue at the link provided.
Both programs share a common mission—ensuring that every traffic stop is handled with patience, understanding, and respect, especially for those who experience the world differently.
