HB1315
To Authorize A Blood Type Designation To Be Placed On A Driver's License Or Identification Card.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill, House Bill 1315, proposes to amend Arkansas law to allow individuals to voluntarily add their blood type designation to their driver's license or identification card. To obtain this designation, an applicant must submit a signed form stating their blood type and pay the required fee for the license or identification card. If a duplicate or substitute license is sought with this designation and the current license is not expired, the fee structure outlined in a specific section of the code will apply. The Office of Driver Services will have the authority to decide where the blood type designation will appear on the card and can create rules for managing this process. The bill explicitly states that no one is required to provide their blood type or have it displayed on their identification. Individuals who choose to add their blood type are solely responsible for the accuracy of the information they submit and must verify its correctness on their issued card, requesting corrections if necessary. The act is scheduled to become effective on January 1, 2026.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
Individuals who choose to have their blood type listed on their driver's license or identification card would be the primary beneficiaries. This could include individuals who wish to have readily accessible information about their blood type in case of medical emergencies, potentially aiding first responders or medical personnel. Parents or guardians of individuals may also benefit by being able to add this information for their dependents.
Who Might Suffer?
The bill does not appear to directly identify groups that would be negatively impacted. However, individuals who opt for this designation bear the sole responsibility for the accuracy of their submitted blood type and for verifying its correct placement on their identification. Failure to ensure accuracy could lead to inconvenience or potential issues if incorrect information is relied upon in an emergency. The Office of Driver Services may experience minor administrative adjustments to accommodate this new feature.