Pennsylvania State Police stations across the commonwealth now have at least five sensory aid bags designed to support individuals with autism and other sensory sensitivities during interactions with law enforcement and first responders.

The bags, provided through a partnership among the Pennsylvania State Police, the Collaborative Autism Movement (CAM) and Amazon, contain headphones, a weighted blanket, sunglasses, a nonverbal communication board, a timer, fidget items and a quick-reference guide.

Officials said the items are intended to reduce anxiety, encourage self-regulation and provide comfort during emergency and nonemergency situations, helping officers better serve people with sensory processing differences.

Krista DeAngelo, president and CEO of CAM, said the program gives families reassurance that first responders will have tools and communication resources available during stressful situations. Acting PSP Commissioner Lt. Col. George Bivens said the bags will help troopers respond with greater understanding and care.

Amazon Community Engagement Manager Lisa Schooley said the company is proud to support the expansion of the program statewide.

The statewide rollout follows a viral social media post highlighting sensory aid bags at PSP Troop N in Hazleton. The response prompted Trooper First Class Anthony Petroski to lead an effort to equip PSP stations throughout Pennsylvania with the bags.

PSP also offers free autism information cards that individuals can carry and present during encounters with law enforcement. The cards alert officers that a person may be nonverbal, sensitive to noise or touch, or unresponsive to commands, and provide guidance for effective communication.