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Bill

HB 1350

Motor Vehicles, Titling and Registration - As enacted, authorizes issuance of a free distinguishing placard for eligible disabled veterans to be used in lieu of a distinguishing license plate for parking purposes; authorizes issuance of a distinguishing placard upon payment of the applicable fee for eligible disabled veterans who have been issued a free distinguishing license plate for parking purposes. - Amends TCA Title 55, Chapter 21 and Title 55, Chapter 4.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Mary Littleton

Tennessee allows disabled veterans to receive free parking placards instead of license plates and to purchase additional placards for multiple vehicles.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 73
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Bill Summary · HB 1350

Legislative bill overview

HB 1350 amends Tennessee's motor vehicle registration laws to allow disabled veterans to obtain a free parking placard as an alternative to a distinguishing license plate. Additionally, disabled veterans who already have a free distinguishing license plate can now purchase an additional placard for a fee, providing flexibility in how they display their disabled veteran status for parking purposes.

Why is this important

Disabled veterans often need accessible parking but may prefer or need multiple vehicles or flexible display options. This change reduces barriers to accessing parking accommodations by offering choice—some veterans may prefer a temporary placard over a permanent plate, or may need both options across different vehicles. The law became effective in April 2025, so affected veterans can now take advantage of this benefit.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost equity: While the free placard addresses accessibility, charging a fee for a second placard means some disabled veterans must pay to equip multiple vehicles, whereas non-disabled vehicle owners don't face similar restrictions
  • Administrative burden: The Tennessee Department of Revenue must implement and manage two parallel systems (plates and placards), potentially creating confusion or processing delays
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill references "eligible disabled veterans" but the specific criteria for eligibility aren't detailed in this summary, which could lead to inconsistent application or disputes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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