Bill > SB802

This bill amends Pennsylvania law to allow individuals with a "communication impairment barrier," which is defined as a health condition that may impede communication with law enforcement during a traffic stop (such as deafness, autism, or diagnosed speech and language disorders), to request a special designation on their driver's license or identification card. To obtain this designation, individuals must provide a sworn statement from a qualified medical professional confirming their condition and certify that they voluntarily disclose this information to the department and law enforcement agencies, authorizing the department to update their electronic records. The bill also allows for the voluntary inclusion of emergency contact information and specifies that a stylized lowercase "i" will be used as an identifier symbol on the license or ID card, without revealing specific medical details. This designation and associated emergency contact information will be shared with law enforcement agencies through existing networks but will be exempt from public access. The bill outlines procedures for removing the designation, prohibits fees for adding or removing the designation itself (though standard license renewal fees still apply), and establishes penalties for submitting false information or misusing the designation, including potential obstruction of justice charges. It also addresses appeals processes and disciplinary actions for medical professionals who falsify information. The bill will take effect one year after enactment.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=802