Bill > HB1700

This bill establishes a "communication impairment BARRIER designation" for individuals with conditions that may hinder communication with law enforcement during traffic stops, such as deafness, autism spectrum disorder, or diagnosed speech and language disorders. To obtain this designation, individuals must provide a sworn statement from a qualified medical professional confirming their condition and voluntarily agree to disclose it to the department and law enforcement agencies, authorizing the update of their electronic records. The designation will be represented by a stylized lowercase "i" symbol on their driver's license or identification card, and this information will be shared with law enforcement through existing networks, excluding specific medical details. The bill also outlines procedures for removing the designation, prohibits fees for adding or removing it (though standard driver's license fees still apply), and details penalties for submitting false information or misusing the designation, including potential criminal charges and disciplinary actions for medical professionals who falsify information. The department is authorized to create regulations for this program, and the changes will take effect 60 days after enactment.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1700