WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1017

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)

Tennessee authorizes free disabled veteran parking placards and fee-based duplicate placards, effective July 2026, offering flexible alternatives to license plate displays.

Pub. Ch. 73
#motorvehicles #titlingandregistration
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1017

Legislative bill overview

SB 1017 allows disabled veterans in Tennessee to obtain a free distinguishing placard for disabled parking in place of a traditional license plate. It also permits disabled veterans who already have a free distinguishing license plate to purchase an additional placard for a fee, providing flexibility in how they display their disabled veteran parking authorization.

Why is this important

Disabled veterans often need accessible parking due to service-connected disabilities, and this bill streamlines the process by offering alternative display methods. The option to have both a placard and plate—or use one interchangeably—increases convenience for veterans managing multiple vehicles or changing transportation needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost equity: While the initial placard is free, disabled veterans must pay a fee for a second placard, which could burden those on limited incomes
  • Enforcement clarity: Questions may arise about how law enforcement verifies placard authenticity and prevents misuse compared to license plate systems
  • Implementation timeline: The July 1, 2026 effective date creates a lag period that may cause confusion about which authorization method is currently valid

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

Sign in to ask a question.