Blue Envelope Program
What is the program?
This program was created to reduce stress and enhance communication between law enforcement and individuals with conditions or disabilities that may impact communication during interactions with law enforcement, such as a traffic stop.
There is a sticker with a blue envelope design for the vehicle to visually cue law enforcement that the driver may have a disability that requires a modified interaction or communication style. And a corresponding blue in color envelope for materials that can hold vehicle and driver information in one place. Upon the request of the driver's information, or the blue envelope specifically, the envelope can be handed over to law enforcement, and it will hold all the identifying information about the driver for law enforcement needs and purposes (on a traffic stop, for example).
How does it work?
When a deputy or officer sees a blue envelope or blue envelope sticker on the vehicle, it is easily recognizable to law enforcement, indicating participation in the Blue Envelope Program. It serves as a visual cue that the individual may benefit from a different communication approach during a traffic stop or other law enforcement interaction.
The blue envelope is meant to hold common documents that law enforcement would routinely ask for during a traffic stop, for example. Those items would be vehicle insurance, a copy of a driver's license, emergency contact information, and vehicle registration.
While the program gives both law enforcement and participants a tool to better understand potential communication needs, participants are still expected to follow lawful instructions to help ensure a safe and effective interaction for everyone involved.
Where and who has blue envelopes?
Individuals interested in participating in the Blue Envelope Program can pick up a blue envelope at any participating law enforcement agency in Mesa County, including the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office at both the main office at 215 Rice Street in Grand Junction and the substation in Clifton, the Fruita Police Department, the Palisade Police Department, the De Beque Marshal’s Office, and the Grand Junction Police Department.
Participation in the program is voluntary, anonymous, and free of charge. Simply stop by one of the agency locations listed above and pick up a free vehicle sticker and blue envelope. Instructions on the envelope explain what documents are best placed in the envelope. Keep the blue envelope in a safe and easily accessible location in your vehicle, and provide the entire envelope upon interaction with law enforcement.