Bill > HB38

This bill revises Montana's laws regarding disability parking by making several key changes. First, it increases the fines for parking violations in disability parking spaces: for a first offense, the fine will be between $150 and $250, and for subsequent offenses, the fine will range from $250 to $500. The bill maintains a provision allowing individuals to avoid the fine if they present a valid disability parking permit within 3 business days of the violation. Additionally, the bill establishes that if a vehicle is parked illegally in a disability space and the registered owner was not present, the owner is still personally responsible unless they can prove the vehicle was used without their consent. The legislation also introduces new criminal penalties, making it a misdemeanor for individuals who provide false information to obtain disability license plates or parking placards, or who assist unqualified persons in acquiring these accommodations. Violators can be fined at least $300 or be required to perform up to 10 hours of community service focused on improving access for persons with disabilities. Finally, the bill explicitly authorizes law enforcement officials to enforce disability parking regulations in public parking spaces and facilities.

Health and Social Services, Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/20251/LC0235