Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to authorize the issuance of disability parking certificates specifically for individuals affected by cancer. It seeks to make it easier for cancer patients, who have mobility challenges related to their condition or its treatment, to access designated parking spaces.

Main Provisions

• Medical Certification Requirement: The bill requires a medical statement from a qualified health professional to certify that the applicant is eligible due to cancer or associated conditions affecting mobility. This certification is necessary to prevent fraud and ensure that only eligible individuals receive the benefits.

• Cancer-Related Parking Certificates: A new provision allows for the issuance of disability parking certificates specifically for individuals diagnosed with cancer. The application process mandates the submission of a medical statement affirming the diagnosis, its impact on mobility, and the duration for which these effects are expected to last, which must be at least 30 days.

• Design and Validity: The bill specifies that the certificates must be made from durable materials and display the expiration date prominently. These certificates will be valid for up to 12 months.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Addition of Cancer-Related Certificates: A new subdivision specifically for cancer-related disability parking certificates is added to Minnesota Statutes section 169.345.

• Fraudulent Certification Penalty: The bill reinforces penalties for health professionals who fraudulently certify individuals as disabled by defining this as a misdemeanor subject to a fine.

Relevant Terms

• Disability parking certificates
• Cancer-related conditions
• Mobility challenges
• Medical statement
• Health professional certification
• Fraud penalty