Requires handicapped parking permits be written in indelible ink or some other form of permanent marking to prevent tampering

11 Co-sponsors

• Eric Adams
• Thomas K. Duane
• Ruth Hassell-Thompson
• Liz Krueger
• Carl Kruger
• George Onorato
• Kevin S. Parker
• John L. Sampson
• Diane J. Savino
• Malcolm A. Smith
• Toby Ann Stavisky

Title of bill

An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to special vehicle identification parking permits

Purpose

To prevent individuals from illegally utilizing handicapped parking spaces by means of tampering with special vehicle identification parking permits.

Summary of provisions

Amends subdivisions 1 and 3 of section 1203-a of the vehicle and traffic law, to provide that special or temporary special vehicle parking permits shall be written in indelible ink, or inscribed in another permanent fashion to prevent tampering with the permit.

Justification

In the last several years, there have been many cases involving individuals who use fraudulent handicapped parking permits to park illegally in handicapped parking spots. Temporary permits have been altered to reflect new expiration date and permanent permits have been stolen and/or altered. Permits made from unalterable material would hinder fraudulent activities. On average, any public or private facility that has at least 20 parking spaces must designate at least 5% or 10 parking spots, whichever is less, of the total number of available parking spots, as handicapped spaces. Since this is a limited amount of space, fraudulent tag holders create an extreme burden for those who legally utilize these spots. Making permits more difficult to alter will lessen the amount of fraudulent holders, and allow for more access to available handicapped spaces for the disabled people who need them.

Legislative history

2007/2008 - S.819/A.1536 Remained in the Committees on Transportation 2005/2006 - S.533/A.862 Remained in the Committees on Transportation 2003/2004 - S.398/A.692 Remained in the Committees on Transportation 2001/2002 - S.1975 Remained in the Senate Committee on Transportation

Fiscal implications for state & local governments

Minimal cost for localities.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the ninetieth day after it shall become law; except that any rules and regulations necessary for the timely implementation of this act on its effective date shall be promulgated on or before such date.