IEMA-PERFORMANCE GRANTS

104th Regular Session Introduced by Charlie Meier

HB 1138 enhances ocean user safety by allowing more medical professionals to certify disabilities for special parking permits, improving access for individuals with disabilities.

Referred to Rules Committee

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1138 (HB 1138) aims to enhance ocean user safety by authorizing specific medical professionals to certify individuals for eligibility for special license plates, certificates, or parking decals for persons with disabilities. This legislation seeks to streamline the certification process, making it more accessible for individuals with disabilities to obtain necessary permits.

Key Provisions

Expanded Certifying Authorities: The bill expands the definition of "certifying authority" to include:

Licensed physicians
Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs)
Physician assistants (PAs)
Physical therapists (PTs)

Certification Process: Individuals applying for a special license plate or permit must be certified as having a qualifying disability under the Access to Parking for Persons with Disabilities Act. The bill maintains the requirement for certification but allows more medical professionals to perform this function.

Recertification Frequency: The bill clarifies that recertification for individuals with permanent disabilities is not required, while those with temporary disabilities must undergo recertification every four years.

Fiscal Impact: The bill is projected to have no significant fiscal impact on the state budget. However, a one-time modification cost of $6,000 is anticipated for the Arkansas Integrated Revenue System (AIRS) to accommodate the changes.

Affected Parties

Individuals with Disabilities: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are individuals with disabilities who require special parking permits. By allowing more medical professionals to certify eligibility, the process becomes more accessible and efficient.

Medical Professionals: APRNs, PAs, and PTs will gain the authority to certify disabilities, thereby expanding their roles in supporting patients with disabilities.

State Agencies: The Office of Motor Vehicle and the Department of Finance and Administration will need to update their manuals and websites, and conduct training for staff to implement the changes.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: January 15, 2025

Current Status: The bill has been recommended for deferral by the committee on JHA as of February 27, 2025.

Amendments: An amendment was made to clarify the recertification process, ensuring that the frequency of recertification for temporary disabilities is not altered inadvertently.

Conclusion

HB 1138 represents a significant step towards improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities in Arkansas by broadening the range of medical professionals who can certify eligibility for special parking permits. The bill aims to simplify the certification process while ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the support they need to access essential services.

Bill