Senate unanimously approves temporary disabled placard for certified high-risk pregnancies

The Tennessee Senate adopted Senate Bill 16 84, creating a temporary disabled-driver/passenger placard for pregnant people with physician-certified high-risk pregnancies. The placard must be visually distinct from permanent placards, display an expiration date and may be issued for the estimated duration of the condition but not longer than six months under the adopted amendment.

Senator Powers, the sponsor, said the bill recognizes and supports expectant mothers facing medical risk. Chairman Massey, speaking for the Transportation and Safety Committee, explained the amendment sets issuance procedures and duration limits. Senators asked whether the certification and administrative form would match existing temporary disabled placard processes; sponsors said the form would be substantially similar with an additional box designating high-risk pregnancy.

The Senate adopted the committee amendment and then passed the bill on a roll-call with 32 ayes and no nays. The measure returns to enrollment and the usual enactment steps.