Researcher: JP Page 1 4/4/23
OLR Bill Analysis
sSB 995
AN ACT CONCERNING REMOVABLE WINDSHIELD PLACARDS
FOR PERSONS WHO ARE BLIND AND PERSONS WITH
DISABILITIES.
SUMMARY
This bill makes several changes to the laws on windshield parking
placards used by people with certain disabilities or blindness. It requires
these placards to bear the words “Accessibility Parking Permit” and,
beginning October 1, 2023, prohibits any issued placard from bearing
the words “parking permit for persons with disabilities.” However,
under the bill, any otherwise valid placard issued before this date is
valid until it expires.
The bill also requires the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
commissioner to check the Department of Public Health’s state death
registry at least monthly, rather than periodically as under current law,
and cancel placards issued to deceased people identified in the registry,
which conforms to current DMV practice.
By August 1, 2023, the bill requires the DMV Commissioner and the
Deputy Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection
with jurisdiction over the state police to jointly convene a working
group, of which they or their designees are also members, comprised of:
1. two or more licensed physicians, physician assistants, or
advanced practice registered nurses whose work includes
certifying applications for removable windshield placards;
2. two or more sworn municipal police department members; and
3. any other person they invite to be a member.
The working group must review the status of lifetime removable 2023SB-00995-R000426-BA.DOCX
Researcher: JP Page 2 4/4/23
placards issued prior to January 1, 2010. Regarding the issuance and use
of removable placards, the group must (1) review other states’ laws; (2)
recommend best practices to the DMV commissioner for clear and
concise policies and regulations, including for applying for placards;
and (3) make educational materials available to medical professionals,
law enforcement officers, and the general public.
The group must submit a report on its findings, the education
materials developed, and any recommendations to the Transportation
Committee by January 1, 2024. The bill sunsets the group on this date or
its reporting date, whichever is later.
EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2023, except the working group is
effective upon passage.
BACKGROUND
DMV Study
PA 22-44, § 17, required the DMV commissioner to report to the
Transportation Committee on the results of her review of other states’
laws and regulations, and any legislative or regulatory
recommendations on applying for, issuing, and using removeable
windshield placards for people with disabilities or blindness.
COMMITTEE ACTION
Transportation Committee
Joint Favorable Substitute
Yea 36 Nay 0 (03/17/2023)