ABC7: “A new Florida handicap parking law is bringing relief to expecting moms”
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – A new Florida bill is bringing relief for pregnant women on the go, allowing expecting moms to apply for a temporary handicap parking pass.
The law went into effect July 1 and was introduced by State Rep. Fiona McFarland, a mother of three.
McFarland patterned her bill after a similar law in Illinois. But while Illinois only allows permits in the third trimester of pregnancy, the permit in Florida is good for a full year.
Anna Valdes, whose baby is due in less than a month, said she wished this law had been passed years ago, especially having to walk in the Florida heat.
“I hate leaving my house just because of how hot it is in Florida, let alone finding a parking space with a new baby,” she said, “so the pass being able to be used for a full year is super convenient and will help a lot as a new mom.”
Katie Becker, the executive director of Parenting Matters, a local nonprofit organization, thanked lawmakers for bringing this issue to light.
“We really understand that parenting is hard. At Parenting Matters, we say it’s the hardest job ever, but with us, you don’t have to do it alone,” Becker said.
“And this is a great example of our representatives thinking about the hard things that go on in everyday lives and how we can support one another.”
For pregnant women to get the permit, they must turn in a doctor’s signature and submit form HSMV 83040 to the Florida Department of Safety and Motor Vehicles. The permits cost $15 and are valid for one year.