Disability Symbol Identification Document
The act creates an option for a person with a disability that interfere's with the person' ability to effectively communicate with a peace officer to request that the department of revenue (department) place a discreet disability identifier symbol on the person's driver's license or identification card. The symbol must represent all types of disabilities, such as cognitive disabilities, neurological diversities, mental health disorders, sensory needs, chronic illness, chronic pain, and physical disabilities. The person may also choose to have the disability information removed from the driver's license or identification card and the department will issue a new driver's license or identification card. There is no fee to either place the symbol on or remove the symbol from a driver's license or identification card.
The act also requires the department to collect information that the owner of a vehicle voluntarily discloses about the disability of a person who is either authorized to drive, or a regular passenger of, the registered vehicle. The department shall make this information immediately available to a peace officer who queries information about the registered vehicle. The vehicle owner may also choose to have the disability information removed from the vehicle registration information.
The department is required to notify peace officers about the creation of the disability identifier symbol and the availability of information regarding the disability of a driver or passenger of a motor vehicle.
By January 15, 2023, and each year thereafter, the department is required to report to legislative committees the percentage of persons who register a vehicle and have disclosed disability information.
To implement the act, $89,298 is appropriated from the general fund to the department of revenue.
(Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)