Advocates and police back expanding autism training for veteran officers; bill would require in‑service education
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Summary
Families, self‑advocates and law enforcement told the committee that police should receive ongoing in‑service training to recognize and safely interact with people on the autism spectrum; sponsors said a 2021 requirement covers cadets but not veteran officers.
Autism advocates, self‑advocates and police officials urged the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security to expand training so veteran police officers and corrections staff receive continuing education on interacting with people on the autism spectrum.
Sam Kenge, an adult with autism and an advocate, and Jonathan Garner, another self‑advocate, described personal encounters and said the training reduces the risk of escalation. "Police officers' jobs are difficult," Sam said. "All police officers need to learn ways to interact with people who have autism so that they know what to do when they see a blue envelope." The "blue envelope" was described in testimony as a card some people use to communicate their diagnosis and care needs to an officer.
Senator Mike Moore and other sponsors described the bill (S 17 41 / H 26 86) as an extension of the 2021 police reform law, which required autism‑awareness training for cadets but not mandatory in‑service training for veteran officers. Sponsors and family members urged the committee to require periodic recertification and in‑service hours so officers can recognize signs of autism and de‑escalate without resorting to force.
Police veterans and trainers present said they support the proposal. Jonathan Garner said his morning training for Beverly police officers had been well received and asked that the program be made universal across departments.
Family members recounted past incidents where a lack of training led to unnecessary restraint or delayed, inappropriate responses; other accounts showed that trained officers resolved incidents without escalation. Supporters recommended including corrections officers and EMS in training.
Committee members asked about training delivery and existing trainers; witnesses pointed to officer Marty Baker at the Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) as an established trainer. The committee did not vote; proponents requested a favorable report and implementation planning to reach every department.
