The Blue Envelope Program
A free tool for clearer communication with law enforcement and first responders
The Blue Envelope Program supports people who communicate or respond differently, including people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, dementia or anxiety. A Blue Envelope, or an item showing the Blue Envelope logo, lets an officer know early in an interaction that the person may need extra time, patience or a different approach to communication.
The program launched in Citrus Heights and across the Sacramento region on October 1, 2026. Participation is free and voluntary, and no registration is required.
At a glance
| Who it's for | Anyone with a condition, disability or need that may affect communication during an interaction with law enforcement or first responders |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Registration | None. There is no registry, and no proof of a diagnosis or disability is required. |
| What it holds | Identification, contact information, and vehicle documents such as registration and proof of insurance |
| Where to get one | Participating police departments, including Citrus Heights, Sacramento, Elk Grove, Folsom and Galt |
| Started | October 1, 2026 |
How the program works
The Blue Envelope is a large, clearly marked envelope that holds the documents an officer typically asks for, along with information about the person's needs. During a traffic stop or other contact, the person shows the envelope or a Blue Envelope item. This signals that an accommodation may help, such as:
- Speaking slowly and using simple, direct language
- Allowing more time to respond to questions or instructions
- Reducing noise, lights or sudden movements when possible
- Contacting a family member, caregiver or support person
Use of the program is self-directed. Each person decides whether to carry an envelope or item and when to show it. The program does not require an officer to compromise their own safety or the safety of others.
Blue Envelope items
In addition to the envelope itself, participating agencies offer items that display the Blue Envelope logo. These are useful for people who are not driving or who may not be able to hand over an envelope:
- Wallet ID cards
- Lanyards
- Seatbelt covers and bag strap covers
- Button pins, key chains and bracelets
- Stickers
Where to get a Blue Envelope
Envelopes and items are available at no cost from participating agencies. Availability can vary by location, so calling ahead is recommended.
Citrus Heights
Citrus Heights Police Department
6315 Fountain Square Drive
Citrus Heights, CA 95621
Sacramento
Sacramento Police Department Headquarters
5770 Freeport Boulevard
Sacramento, CA 95822
Pickup at the Richards Police Facility, 300 Richards Boulevard, by appointment: (916) 808-4500
Elk Grove, Folsom and Galt
Contact the local police department to confirm pickup times and locations.
Placer County
Placer County already offers the program through the Sheriff's Office and the Auburn, Lincoln, Rocklin and Roseville police departments. See Placer County locations.
As of October 2026, the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office had not yet joined the program. This affects unincorporated areas served by the Sheriff, such as Fair Oaks, Carmichael and Orangevale, as well as Rancho Cordova. Residents of those areas can still pick up an envelope from a participating agency.
Preparing your envelope
- Add your documents. Place your driver's license or ID, vehicle registration and proof of insurance inside.
- Add a contact card. Include the name and phone number of a family member, caregiver or other support person.
- Describe what helps. On the wallet card or a short note, list how you communicate best and what helps you stay calm. Examples: "I may not make eye contact," "Loud voices make it hard for me to respond," or "Please write down instructions."
- Keep it easy to reach. Store the envelope in the same place each time, such as the sun visor or glove box, so it can be found quickly.
- Practice. Rehearse a traffic stop with a family member or support person so the steps feel familiar.
During a traffic stop or interaction
- Pull over safely, turn on the interior light if it is dark, and keep your hands visible.
- Tell the officer you have a Blue Envelope and where it is before reaching for it. If speaking is difficult, point to the Blue Envelope sticker or item.
- Hand the officer the envelope when asked.
- Follow instructions and ask the officer to repeat or write down anything that is unclear.
For families and caregivers
Many people who benefit from the program do not drive. A Blue Envelope item can be attached to a backpack, wheelchair, walker or keys so that it is visible to first responders. Families of people living with dementia may also find the program helpful, especially if a loved one is at risk of becoming lost or confused away from home.
Caregivers can help prepare the envelope, keep contact information current and practice the steps with the person they support.
Bringing the program to the Sacramento region
Citrus Heights Vice Mayor Porsche Middleton, founder of Get Care at Home, worked for about a year to bring the Blue Envelope Program to Citrus Heights and to build consistency across the Sacramento region. The Citrus Heights Police Department led the local effort, and police chiefs from Citrus Heights, Elk Grove, Folsom, Galt and Sacramento introduced the program together on September 30, 2026.
- Citrus Heights Police Department press release (September 28, 2026)
- City of Citrus Heights announcement
- Citrus Heights Sentinel: Vice Mayor champions Blue Envelope program throughout region
- Sacramento City Express: Sacramento Police Department launches Blue Envelope Program
Frequently asked questions
Who can use a Blue Envelope?
Anyone with a condition, disability or need that may affect communication with law enforcement or first responders. Examples include intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, dementia, anxiety, hearing loss and other health or mental health conditions.
Do I need to prove I have a disability?
No. There is no application, no proof of eligibility and no registry. The program is voluntary and self-directed.
Is there a cost?
No. Envelopes and Blue Envelope items are free at participating agencies.
Do I need to drive to use the program?
No. Wallet cards, lanyards, bracelets, pins and bag strap covers can be used by anyone, including passengers, pedestrians and people who do not drive.
Does a Blue Envelope change the outcome of a traffic stop?
No. The envelope helps an officer understand how to communicate with you. It does not prevent a citation or change the law, and it does not require an officer to compromise anyone's safety.
Does my information go into a database?
No. There is no registry. The information stays in the envelope, and you decide when to share it.
Can I use my envelope outside the Sacramento area?
Many California agencies use the Blue Envelope Program, including Placer County. Agencies outside the area may not be familiar with it, so be ready to explain the envelope briefly or point to the note inside.
Where can I learn more?
Contact the Citrus Heights Police Department at (916) 727-5500 or the Sacramento Police Department at (916) 808-4500, or read the Citrus Heights Police Department press release linked on this page.
Home care support
Get Care at Home provides non-medical home care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and for older adults living with dementia in the Sacramento area.
The Blue Envelope Program is run by participating law enforcement agencies. Get Care at Home does not distribute envelopes or administer the program. Locations and details may change; confirm with your local agency.
