New law asks DMV to look at handicap placard abuse

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Ever seen someone park in a handicap space and wonder if the handicap placard they have is really theirs? A new state law is looking at ways to stop such abuse.

Gov. Pat McCrory this week signed into law a bill that directs the Division of Motor Vehicles to study ways to decrease the misuse of handicap windshield placards.

The study will include “the cost, feasibility, and advisability” of requiring more personally identifying information on placards, including a picture of the person to whom it was issued, linking the placard to the handicapped person’s driver license or ID card and linking the placard to the license plate issued to the handicapped person or the owner of the vehicle in which the handicapped person is or will be transported.

The DMV is supposed to report back to legislators by Jan. 15, 2016.