House to vote on health care bills, blue envelope program for drivers with autism

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Today, the House Labor Committee will vote on legislation that would prohibit contractors or subcontractors from paying employees the cash equivalent of any applicable health care benefit instead of purchasing it.

Anyone found in violation could face civil penalties.

The House of Human Services Committee will also consider a bill to assist communication between police and drivers with autism.

The bill would require the department of motor vehicles to create a ‘blue envelope program.’

Drivers with autism would put their license, registration and insurance in a blue envelope that would be handed over to police during a traffic stop.

The envelope would include whether they require a special approach during a traffic stop or an emergency.

The program would be on a voluntary, opt-in basis.