By Bob Katzen

Bill (H 3393)allows cities and towns to increase the current fines of $100 to $300 for drivers who violate handicapped parking violations. The bill would allow communities to assess an additional separate fine of up to $450 in addition to the $100 to $300 one.

The up to $450 fine would be placed in a separate city or town account that would be used solely for funding and implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act on public property and in public buildings within the city or town where the violation took place.

“In my district and across the state, cities and towns through commissions on disabilities have plans to make their communities more accessible,” said Rep. Bruce Ayers (D-Quincy). “However, oftentimes a lack of funding prevents them from enacting their plans. This bill allows them to place some of the financial burden on the backs of those who violate the laws that exist to protect the rights of people with disabilities.”