The bill introduces a new section, "31-28-7.4. Motor vehicle plates for persons with disabilities -- Adaptive vehicle license plate," to Chapter 31-28 of the General Laws. This section defines key terms, including "adaptive vehicle," which refers to a motor vehicle that has been structurally modified or equipped with specialized equipment to accommodate the transportation needs of an individual with a significant mobility impairment. It also defines "qualified individual" as a person with a permanent mobility impairment certified by a licensed physician or physical therapist, necessitating the use of an adaptive vehicle for transport.

To obtain an adaptive vehicle license plate, applicants must complete an application form from the Department of Motor Vehicles, provide medical certification of their disability or need for vehicle modification, and submit proof of vehicle modification, while standard registration fees will apply.

The bill outlines privileges for vehicles displaying an adaptive vehicle license plate, including eligibility for parking in designated accessible loading/unloading zones to assist qualified individuals, exemption from certain height, width, or bumper restrictions applicable to non-modified vehicles as allowed by state law, and access to designated areas at public facilities where adaptive vehicles require additional space for ramp deployment or passenger transfer. Additionally, the Division of Motor Vehicles may issue plates displaying the "International Symbol of Access" for pleasure passenger vehicles or pickup trucks used exclusively for noncommercial purposes for qualified individuals. The act will take effect upon passage.