HB285 Enrolled is a legislative bill that proposes amendments to the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically targeting the language and symbols used in motor vehicle registrations and license plates for individuals with disabilities. The bill introduces the Dynamic Accessibility Symbol to replace the International Symbol of Access on distinctive license plates and removable windshield placards. It also updates terminology, replacing "handicapped" with "individuals with disabilities" and "temporarily disabled" with "individual with a temporary disability." The bill allows for the issuance of a second placard upon request and grants the Commissioner of Revenue the authority to adopt rules for administering these changes. Additionally, it includes updates to the provisions for distinctive military license plates and ensures consistency with federal parking rules for individuals with disabilities.

The bill also specifies that applicants for distinctive license plates for vehicles used to transport individuals with disabilities shall pay regular fees and updates the language to reflect the new Accessibility Symbol. It clarifies that the use of these special license plates is optional for individuals with disabilities and makes changes to the commissioner's rule-making authority by removing certain terms. The bill requires recertification by a licensed physician for individuals with long-term disabilities before reissuing special access parking or disability access parking license plates. It also clarifies regulations regarding parking in spaces reserved for individuals with disabilities. The act is scheduled to become effective on January 1, 2026, after being passed by the Senate on May 8, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-6-157, 32-6-231, 32-6-231, 32-6-231, 40-12-300
Engrossed: 32-6-157, 32-6-231, 32-6-231, 32-6-231, 40-12-300
Enrolled: 32-6-157, 32-6-231, 32-6-231, 32-6-231, 40-12-300