This bill aims to enhance the enforcement of parking regulations for individuals with walking disabilities by introducing stricter penalties and requirements for the display of disability placards. Key provisions include the requirement for walking disability placards to contain specific driver's license information, and the establishment of a minimum fine of $500 for parking in restricted spaces without a valid placard, up from the previous $250. Additionally, the bill increases fines for subsequent offenses and introduces a new penalty for displaying counterfeit or fraudulent placards, which can result in a violation for a first offense and a misdemeanor for subsequent offenses, with fines starting at $1,000.

The bill also amends existing laws to clarify that free parking privileges for vehicles carrying special plates or placards are contingent upon the presence of the individual with a walking disability in the vehicle. It specifies that any violation of these provisions will incur fines that are partially payable to the local municipality. The effective date for these changes is set for January 1, 2026. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve compliance and reduce fraud in the use of accessible parking spaces.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 265:69, 265:69-a, 265:74, 261:88
As Amended by the Senate: 265:69, 265:69-a, 265:74
As Amended by the House: 265:69, 265:69-a, 265:74
Version adopted by both bodies: 265:69, 265:69-a, 265:74
SB151 text: 265:69, 265:69-a, 265:74, 261:88