HB1138
To Authorize Certain Medical Professionals To Certify To The Office Of Motor Vehicle Eligibility For A Special License Plate, Certificate, Or Parking Decal For A Person With A Disability.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill amends Arkansas law to expand the types of medical professionals who can certify a person's disability for the purpose of obtaining special license plates, certificates, or parking decals. Currently, only licensed physicians can make these certifications. The bill explicitly authorizes advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants, who are already authorized to sign for disabled parking permits under existing law, to make these certifications. Additionally, it amends the law to allow licensed physical therapists to certify to the Office of Motor Vehicle that a patient is a person with a disability for the purposes of the Access to Parking for Persons with Disabilities Act. The bill also clarifies the definition of "certifying authority" to include these expanded professional categories. Finally, it modifies provisions related to temporary certificates and recertification periods for special license plates and certificates for persons with disabilities.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill are individuals with disabilities in Arkansas who qualify for special parking privileges and related benefits. By expanding the pool of "certifying authorities" to include advanced practice registered nurses, physician assistants, and licensed physical therapists, the bill aims to increase accessibility to these certifications. This could potentially reduce wait times and geographical barriers for individuals seeking these certifications, particularly in areas with fewer licensed physicians or where access to physicians is more challenging. Furthermore, organizations that transport persons with disabilities may also benefit from streamlined recertification processes.
Who Might Suffer?
This bill is not designed to negatively impact any specific groups or entities in a direct manner. However, there could be indirect impacts. The Office of Motor Vehicle may need to update its administrative processes and training materials to accommodate the expanded list of certifying authorities. Additionally, there might be a need for the medical professional boards to ensure that the expanded scope of certification for physical therapists aligns with their professional competencies without exceeding their scope of practice. The effectiveness and fairness of the certification process will ultimately depend on the consistent and accurate application of disability criteria by all authorized certifying professionals.