Committee advances bill to create movable disabled-veteran parking placard

The Senate Transportation and Safety Committee voted to advance Senate Bill 1017, which would authorize a movable parking placard for disabled veterans, allowing a placard to be moved between vehicles rather than requiring a veteran to obtain a dedicated plate.

Why it matters: Supporters said the change allows flexibility for disabled veterans who share multiple vehicles or who do not want a permanent plate assigned to one car.

Chairman White presented the bill and described its intent: "This legislation would allow a handicap, disabled veteran handicap placard. Currently, of course, you can get the license plate, but, that would develop a placard that could be moved from car to car if you're a disabled veteran," he said. An amendment—the committee said brought by the Department of Revenue—sets the implementation date to July 1, 2026 so agencies would have time to produce the placard.

After a brief discussion and a request for a favorable vote from Chairman White, the committee took a roll call. Senators who recorded "aye" included Senator Bailey, Senator Briggs, Senator Campbell, Senator Hatcher, Senator Pote, Senator Powers, Senator Taylor and Chairlady Massey; the chair announced "9 ayes" and the bill was reported out to the calendar.

Ending: Senate Bill 1017 was passed out of committee as amended and will be scheduled on the chamber calendar for further consideration.