Bill > S0418

This bill establishes a program to improve interactions between law enforcement officers and individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It requires the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to create a "blue envelope and blue card" program by January 1, 2027, where individuals with ASD can obtain a blue envelope to hold important documents like driver's licenses and insurance, and a blue card with communication guidelines for law enforcement. The exterior of the envelope and the card itself will identify the individual as having ASD and provide guidance for officers. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission, within the Department of Law Enforcement, develop and incorporate comprehensive training for law enforcement officers on interacting with individuals with ASD into their initial certification and continued employment courses by July 1, 2028, with all officers required to complete this training by July 1, 2030. This training will cover various aspects, including understanding ASD, communication techniques, de-escalation strategies, and recognizing an individual's "agency," which is defined as the ability to make independent decisions and act in their own best interests, while also identifying potential abuse or coercion. The bill also defines "autism spectrum disorder" as it is defined in another section of Florida Statutes.

Budget and Finance

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/418