Amendment #3 to S2903

Autism and neurodivergent registration plates

Mr. Gómez of Easthampton moves to amend the bill by adding the following:

SECTION XXXXX: Section 2 of chapter 90 of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2024 Official Edition, and as amended by House No. 5439, is hereby further amended by adding the following paragraph:

The registrar shall furnish to owners or lessees of private passenger motor vehicles registered in the commonwealth, upon presentation of satisfactory evidence to the registrar, a distinctive registration plate for individuals who are autistic or neurodivergent, or for the parent or legal guardian of an autistic or neurodivergent individual. Eligibility shall be established through certification by a licensed physician, psychologist, or other qualified medical professional, attesting that the applicant or the applicant’s child has been diagnosed as autistic or neurodivergent. The registrar shall consult with representatives of the autistic and neurodivergent community regarding the design of the plate, which shall contain distinctive markings identifying the vehicle as associated with an autistic or neurodivergent individual or family. The registrar may promulgate rules and regulations necessary to implement this paragraph, including procedures for application, verification of eligibility, issuance, and renewal. The fee for such registration plate shall be the same as the fee for a standard passenger registration plate.