Beginning November 13, 2017, a new “Van Accessible” parking decal will be available at revenue offices throughout the state for Arkansans who use a mobility device. The decal is made available through Act 799 of the 2017 Arkansas legislative session. Sponsored by State Rep. Andy Mayberry (R- Hensley), the legislation is known as “The Van Accessible Parking Act.”
The decal is an addition to an existing license plate or hang tag for those with a disability. There is no fee for the decal but a form must be completed, signed by a doctor and submitted at the revenue office. This form, along with additional information, can be found on the Department of Finance and Administration’s homepage, www.dfa.arkansas.gov, under “News and Releases.”
The decal will allow law enforcement to confirm a vehicle in the “Van Accessible” space is parked legally.
“It’s important to note that we haven’t changed Arkansas law regarding who is eligible to park in a van accessible space. This decal will simply make it easier for law enforcement personnel to recognize when a car, truck or van is parked illegally. Hopefully, this will result in increased enforcement and fewer violations,” said Rep. Mayberry. “Being able to get into and out of your vehicle is vitally important to independence so a person can work, shop, go to doctor’s appointments, and participate in a variety of other everyday activities.”
Many parking lots have one or limited “van accessible” parking spots available. This legislation was created to ensure this space is utilized by an authorized vehicle, allowing those using a mobility device the space needed to effectively enter and exit the vehicle.
The need for this decal was highlighted by the Arkansas Spinal Cord Commission’s Accessible Parking Task Force, which worked with Rep. Mayberry to develop the legislation.
“This law is very simple, to be eligible for a decal for your vehicle or placard you must be an individual that meets the requirements for a mobility device as defined by the law,” said Barry Vuletich, a member of Accessible Parking Task Force. “All others are not eligible. This will assist with law enforcement to identify violations.”
Act 799 defines a mobility device as a wheelchair, a three or four-wheeled scooter, a four-wheeled walker with a seat or a similar device.
For questions or more information, please call the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration’s Motor Vehicle Division at 501-682-4692.