New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A09013

Introduced
8/13/25  

Caption

Directs the department of motor vehicles commissioner to offer, upon request, a "blue envelope" to a person who has autism spectrum disorder in order to facilitate clear and safe communication with law enforcement and provide ease of access to a driver's documentation.

Impact

This bill aims to streamline interactions between law enforcement and those with autism, promoting a better understanding of their needs. By clearly outlining instructions for accessing the envelope and the information it contains, the legislation is designed to alleviate communication barriers that can cause anxiety for individuals with autism during traffic stops or other law enforcement engagements. The anticipated consequence is an increase in safety for these individuals while allowing police officers to respond appropriately.

Summary

Bill A09013 seeks to amend the vehicle and traffic law by introducing 'blue envelopes' designed specifically for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The blue envelopes will contain essential documentation such as a driver's license, registration certificate, and insurance identification card. They are intended to enhance effective communication between police officers and individuals with autism during encounters, thereby improving safety and understanding during potentially stressful situations.

Contention

While the bill is primarily framed as a supportive measure for individuals with autism, some may raise concerns regarding its implementation, particularly in terms of public awareness and training for law enforcement personnel. Questions could arise on how effectively the blue envelopes would be disseminated and utilized. There may also be discussions on the costs associated with producing and distributing these envelopes, as well as the potential need for ongoing training and education for law enforcement to recognize and adapt their interactions with individuals carrying the envelopes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A07971

Allows individuals to request a notation on their driver's license indicating that they have autism spectrum disorder, or any other medical, mental, or behavioral condition that may alter or impair their behavior; requires medical documentation to be submitted as proof upon such a request; directs the commissioner of motor vehicles to consult with the commissioner of health and the commissioner of mental health to determine a list of such conditions and disorders that may be indicated on an individual's driver's license.

NY S09539

Allows individuals to request a notation on their driver's license indicating that they have autism spectrum disorder, or any other medical, mental, or behavioral condition that may alter or impair their behavior; requires medical documentation to be submitted as proof upon such a request; directs the commissioner of motor vehicles to consult with the commissioner of health and the commissioner of mental health to determine a list of such conditions and disorders that may be indicated on an individual's driver's license.

NY S09337

Establishes the transitional pathway program for students in higher education at SUNY and CUNY schools with autism spectrum disorder to encourage accessibility and inclusivity in higher education for students with autism spectrum disorder; makes related provisions.

NY A00213

Includes a distinctive mark on a person's driver's license if a person has autism spectrum disorder.

NY A09073

Directs the commissioner of health to make publicly available on the department of health website a report concerning access to applied behavior analysis for enrolled children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

NY S05762

Requires health insurers to provide full coverage for the prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder; establishes an advisory panel on health insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorder to annually compile a list of treatments and therapy options for which health insurers will be required to provide coverage; establishes a toll-free, 24 hour a day, autism and health insurance coverage hotline to receive and act upon complaints and questions from families with autistic children, relating to insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorder.

NY S02494

Establishes a three year term limit for members of the autism spectrum disorders advisory board.

NY A03534

Establishes a three year term limit for members of the autism spectrum disorders advisory board.

NY S06376

Creates the New York autism spectrum disorders treatment, training and research council; provides for the powers and duties of the council.

NY A09868

Creates the New York autism spectrum disorders treatment, training and research council; provides for the powers and duties of the council.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.