The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to provide free parking at metered spaces for disabled veterans and Purple Heart recipients, exempting them from the requirement to deposit coins or currency into parking meters. To qualify for this exemption, individuals must have a designated vehicle registration plate indicating their status. Additionally, the bill prohibits public entities from charging individuals with mobility impairments for accessible parking at meters that are inaccessible and establishes penalties for false certification regarding mobility impairments. It also outlines definitions and qualifications for individuals with mobility impairments, detailing the process for obtaining special registration plates or removable windshield placards, and specifies the responsibilities of parking enforcement personnel.

Moreover, the bill introduces a program allowing law enforcement agencies to utilize trained volunteers to gather information for issuing citations to individuals who illegally park in designated accessible parking spaces. Volunteers are required to photograph the offending vehicle and complete a form with relevant details. Local authorities adopting these enforcement provisions will retain fines and late fees to fund the volunteer program or contribute to the local General Revenue Fund. The bill also states that public entities cannot require payment for parking in accessible spaces if certain conditions are met, including the display of a special registration plate or placard and valid parking certification from a licensed medical provider. If a vehicle is cited for parking at an expired meter under these conditions, the citation will be considered prima facie evidence of entitlement to park in the accessible space if the driver can produce the parking certification.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17A-3-15a
Engrossed Version: 17A-3-15a
Enrolled Version: 17C-13-6