Disabled placard changes coming this fall to curb fraud

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – Changes are coming this fall to Kentucky’s familiar blue and red disabled parking placards.

The goal is to improve parking access for disabled populations and curbing potential fraudulent use.

The state says the Kentucky Transportation Cabinets Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing is working to change the design of the placards and the way they are issued.

Changes include new permanent and temporary disabled placards that will feature a decal with a printed expiration date to minimize fraud.

There will also be a $10 fee for duplicate or replacement placards to reduce the number of placards on the roads that may be used by non-disabled drivers not transporting a disabled person.

The state stopped charging for additional placards in 2009 and says, in one year, the number of placards issued surged from nearly 32,000 to more than 209,000.

Permanent handicap placards will be valid for six years instead of two maximizing convenience and the parent or guardian of a disabled person may apply for a placard on his or her behalf.

Organizations will also be allowed to obtain a placard.

Kentuckians can expect to see program changes launch September 17 at County Clerk offices across the state.