Making San Diego a Blue Envelope County
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Board Meeting: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, 09/26/2023
Tuesday, September 26, 2023
A Program for Enhanced Communication
In this blog, you’ll learn about the Blue Envelope Program, an initiative by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department to facilitate better communication between law enforcement and individuals with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, dementia, and anxiety. We’ll delve into how the program works, its benefits, and its potential for expansion.
The Genesis of the Blue Envelope Program
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors recently approved the Blue Envelope Program, aimed at improving communication between law enforcement officers and people with disabilities or conditions like autism, dementia, or anxiety. The program allows residents to present their identifying information in a blue envelope during interactions with officers, who are trained to recognize it and provide necessary accommodations 1 .
How Does It Work?
Participation in the program is entirely voluntary and self-implemented. Individuals can present a blue envelope containing crucial details like identification, contact information, and vehicle documents during their interactions with law enforcement or community service personnel.
Benefits and Features
- Enhanced Communication : The program aims to alleviate misunderstandings and increase awareness between citizens and officers.
- Personalized Accommodations : Officers are trained to recognize the blue envelope and understand that the individual may require additional accommodations.
- Empowerment : The program is a symbol of empowerment and communication, making interactions smoother and more inclusive for everyone involved .
Expanding the Initiative
With strong backing from the San Diego County Chiefs’ and Sheriff’s Association, plans are underway to extend the Blue Envelope Program across the county. The program includes a range of products like windshield stickers, lanyards, wristbands, seat belt covers, and pins that individuals can display.
The Road Ahead
The goal is to make San Diego a “Blue Envelope County,” ensuring that everyone in the community, including those with conditions or disabilities, can interact with the police more easily and safely .
Board Letter:
Making San Diego a Blue Envelope County D5 D3 Sheriff
Attachments:
09262023 ag01 Ecomments
09262023 ag01 Public Communicaiton 1
09262023 ag01 Speakers
SIGNED A72 Form BLUE ENVELOPE D5D3
SIGNED A72 Form BLUE ENVELOPE Sheriff
