revise the application requirements for special license plates and parking permits for individuals with disabilities.

Disability parking access and application rules

South Dakota resident vehicle owners can apply for disability plates for themselves or a dependent they transport as parent or legal guardian. Owners must meet vehicle-registration rules, and the disability must make walking impossible or cause substantial hardship. More professionals can sign the required certification: physicians, physician assistants, chiropractors, physical therapists, and certified nurse practitioners. They must be licensed under South Dakota Title 36 and certify only within their scope of practice. Applications go through the county treasurer on state-approved forms. After state approval, special plates are issued at no charge, replace regular plates, and must follow state display rules. Residents with a qualifying substantial physical disability can also apply for a portable, serially numbered parking certificate using professional certification. After approval, the certificate allows disability-space parking and parking without time limits as provided by state law. The secretary must set rules defining qualifying disabilities and governing certificate applications, terms, and conditions. Plates must be returned within 30 days after qualifying disability or dependent or guardianship status ends, or the applicant dies. The owner must then obtain regular plates. Certificates must be returned within 30 days after the holder no longer has a qualifying disability or dies. Returns go to the county treasurer, who notifies the secretary to update state records. Unlawful failure to return plates or certificates is a Class 2 misdemeanor. False or fraudulent applications, or altering a parking certificate, are Class 1 misdemeanors.