Provides for issuance, upon application therefor, of distinctive drivers licenses and number plates to persons who are hearing impaired

Title of bill

An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to licenses and registration number plates for the hearing impaired

Purpose

Provides for issuance, upon application therefore, of distinctive drivers licenses and number plates to persons who are hearing impaired.

Summary of provisions

Section 1 amends vehicle and traffic law 404-5-1 to: (1) allow the commissioner to issue distinctive number plates, upon application, for motors vehicles registered to hearing impaired persons to bear the letters "HI"; (2) require proof of hearing impairment as determined by regulations promulgated by the commissioner in consultation with the commissioner of health prior to issuing plates; and (3) require the fee otherwise required to be paid for vehicle registration to accompany registration for hearing impaired plates.

Section 2 amends subdivision 1 of section 504 of vehicle and traffic law by adding new paragraph a-2, which permits people determined as hearing impaired to have that statement printed on their license, at no additional fee than otherwise normally required.

Section 3 provides for the effective date to be the first of January next succeeding the date on which the amendments become law.

Justification

Distinctively marked drivers licenses and number plates will assist in alerting law enforcement, emergency services, and any others approaching the vehicle or viewing the individuals license that they are hearing impaired. This identification of hearing impairment could help police or first responders understand the condition more quickly, and alter their mode of communication as required.

Legislative history

New Bill

Fiscal implications

To be determined

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the first of January next succeeding the date when the bill becomes law.