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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | October 25, 2017 07:26 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Harry Readshaw |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Modernizing Pennsylvania's Disabled Parking Laws |
| In the near future, I intend to introduce legislation that will improve access to disabled parking spaces of this Commonwealth with a focus on prohibiting the obstruction of access aisles and strengthening enforcement measures. According to the Commonwealth’s parking lot construction standards, approximately 4 percent of a parking lot is allocated for disabled parking spaces with even less space available for an access aisle. Given the limited availability of disabled parking spaces, individuals who legally hold a disabled parking placard or plate need these spaces to be protected and properly enforced. Too often, when a disabled person attempts to park their vehicle in a space reserved for those with disabilities, they are unable to realize the appropriate accommodations because an object or another vehicle is partially or completely blocking the access aisle. An access aisle is an area generally marked with diagonal lines adjoining a parking space reserved for persons with disabilities, in compliance with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This space is necessary for disabled persons to safely enter and exit a vehicle with equipment such as a ramp or a wheelchair lift. Title 75 prohibits unauthorized use of parking spaces designated for disabled persons, but is silent on the blocking or improper use of access aisles. Additionally, law enforcement has asked for clarity in their ability to issue disabled parking violations. This legislation will streamline the roles and responsibilities of law enforcement and parking lot owners or lessees. It will also enable the option for state or local public agencies to create a parking enforcement specialist to assist with enforcing the disabled parking laws. Further, the legislation will allow a witness to report a violation to a police officer or a parking enforcement specialist. Violators will be subject to towing, charged with a summary offense and susceptible to increased fines. Other states including California, Florida, Texas and Washington have addressed these issues and I believe it is time for Pennsylvania to follow suit. Please join me in support of this long-overdue legislation to provide the needed protection and enforcement measures to modernize our disabled parking laws. If you have any questions, please contact Keontay Hodge, in my office, at 717-772-4031 or Khodge@pahouse.net |