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" or "persons with disabilities." The bill outlines the process for obtaining special access or disability access license plates and placards, including requirements for medical proof of disability and the issuance of temporary placards for those with temporary disabilities.

Furthermore, the bill allows both individuals and government agencies to apply for distinctive license plates for vehicles used to transport individuals with disabilities, with applicants required to pay standard fees. It specifies that these plates can be used on various vehicle types and emphasizes that individuals with disabilities are not required to display them. A new requirement mandates that individuals with long-term disabilities must be recertified by a licensed physician for reissuance of their special access parking or disability access license plates. The bill also clarifies that a vehicle 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.

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