FL H0365

Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles must establish a "blue envelope and blue card program" by January 1, 2027, to improve communication between individuals with autism spectrum disorder and law enforcement officers during traffic stops and other interactions.

Blue envelopes will hold driver's license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and emergency contact information; blue cards (digital or wallet-sized) will identify the individual as having autism spectrum disorder and include communication guidelines for officers.

Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission must establish mandatory employment training for law enforcement officers on interacting with individuals with autism spectrum disorder, including de-escalation techniques, interview methods, and recognizing autism versus belligerent behavior.

Basic skills courses for law enforcement initial certification must incorporate autism training by July 1, 2028, with in-person instruction required; all certified officers must complete the training by July 1, 2030.

Act takes effect July 1, 2026.