Blue Envelope Program aims to make interactions with law enforcement safer

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) - A program in Imperial County is helping law enforcement better communicate with residents who have autism, anxiety, or other communication challenges.

The Imperial County Sheriff's Office (ICSO) rolled out the Blue Envelope Program in 2024. The program is designed to make encounters safer and less stressful.

Participants can keep important documents inside the blue envelope, along with information about their communication or sensory needs.

The blue envelope, lanyard, bracelet, sticker, or pin, alerts law enforcement that a person may need more support or accommodations during interactions.

The program is free and voluntary, and does not create a registry.

It is already being implemented in surrounding counties like San Diego and Riverside.

Blue Envelope packets are available through ICSO in El Centro, as well as police locations in Holtville, Brawley, and Winterhaven.