House Passes Legislation to Safeguard Against Handicapped Parking Fraud

Representative Michael S. Day joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House to pass legislation that authorizes the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) to investigate charges that someone has falsely obtained, or is falsely using, a handicapped parking placard or license plate. It also allows the RMV to require documentation when determining if an applicant is eligible for a handicapped plate or placard.

“This bill will allow the Commonwealth to address and penalize the abhorrent actions of some who wrongly seek to take advantage of handicapped parking plates and placards,” said Representative Day. “I hope the Senate acts swiftly to pass this bill, which was brought forward by the Inspector General’s office after a comprehensive investigation into the prevalence of this type of fraud.”

The bill would create fines of $500 for the first offense and $1,000 for a second or subsequent offense for intentionally making false statements to obtain a handicapped plate or placard.