The bill amends several sections of the Code of Alabama 1975 to replace the "International Symbol of Access" with the "Dynamic Accessibility Symbol" on distinctive license plates issued to individuals with disabilities. This change is reflected in Sections 32-6-157, 32-6-231, 32-6-231.1, 32-6-231.2, and 40-12-300, where the term "International Symbol of Access" is deleted and replaced with "Dynamic Accessibility Symbol." Additionally, the language has been updated to refer to "individuals with disabilities" instead of "handicapped persons." The bill also outlines the process for obtaining special access or disability access license plates and placards, requiring medical proof of disability and ensuring compliance with federal regulations.

Moreover, the bill allows both individuals and government agencies to apply for distinctive license plates, clarifying that these plates can be used on various vehicle types, including vans, buses, and motorcycles. It introduces a recertification requirement for individuals with long-term disabilities by a licensed physician before reissuing special access parking plates. Furthermore, it specifies that vehicles cannot be parked in designated disability areas unless the individual with a disability is present. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, aiming to modernize the language and symbols used in the law to be more inclusive and reflective of current standards.

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