The Naperville Police Department is launching a new initiative to improve interactions between police and individuals with autism.

Called the Blue Envelope Program, it provides people on the autism spectrum with a way to deal with police officers when they meet during a traffic stop or other interaction. The person is allowed to present an officer with a blue envelope containing information on their needs and communication styles, according to an Aug. 21 memo sent to the Naperville city manager.

The information provided gives police officers a better understanding of their specific communication methods and needs so that the chances of a misunderstanding — and associated anxiety — can be reduced, the memo said.

For example, the envelop might note that the holder is not verbal or communi

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