Modeled on the Blue Envelope Program – a law enforcement initiative that helps individuals with ASD communicate during encounters – the voluntary program promotes safe, positive, and effective interactions between court staff and individuals with ASD.
The Blue Card is a document holder for individuals with autism spectrum disorder to store their court paperwork, and, if they choose, a copy of their identification card, helping them arrive prepared for court. The program also provides clear, accessible information about what to expect when entering a courthouse, proceeding through security, and appearing in the courtroom. In addition, the Blue Card includes space for the individual to list an emergency contact.
The Blue Card serves as a visual cue to court employees that an individual may communicate, respond, or react differently than a neurotypical court user. This allows court employees to adjust their approach to better meet the needs of individuals with ASD.
The Trial Court developed BCI in collaboration with The Arc of Massachusetts, the Massachusetts State Police, and Sergeant Ryan Roettger of the Southbridge Police Department, incorporating their guidance and training to help ensure the program effectively serves the autism community while supporting courthouse personnel.
This initiative reflects the Trial Court’s commitment to equal access to justice and to delivering timely, courteous service to all who use the Commonwealth’s courts.
BCI is scheduled to launch on April 30 at the Edward Brooke Courthouse in Boston and will roll out statewide.