The Massachusetts state Senate voted to give the state’s registry of motor vehicles (RMV) more power and tools to crack down on drivers who fraudulently apply for and use parking permits for the disabled. The measure, passed by unanimous vote, would:
- Increase license suspensions of those who fraudulently use or display the permits from 30 to 60 days on first offense and from 90 to 120 days for second offenses.
- Establish a $50 fine for those who obstruct or remove the expiration dates or serial numbers on permits.
- Lets the RMV require documentation for permit issuance and to hold applications until documentation is received.
- Levies a $500 fine on those who make false statements on permit applications the first time. Second-time offenders will pay fines of $1,000.
The bill moves to the state House of Representatives next. Read more about it here.