HF3527

Purpose

• Add a new option to display a speech condition on a driver's license or Minnesota identification card.
• Create privacy-friendly language: the ID may show a graphic or written indicator for a speech condition or disorder (including stuttering) without revealing medical details.

Main Provisions

• New Subdivision 6c added to Minnesota Statutes 171.07:
  • Upon written request by the applicant, the commissioner must issue a driver's license or Minnesota identification card that bears a graphic or written identifier for a speech condition or disorder (e.g., stuttering).
  • The ID must not include any specific medical information about the condition.
• Replacement or renewal option:
  • If the applicant requests a replacement or renewal and pays the required fee, the department must issue the replacement or renewal license or ID without the designation.

How This Changes Existing Law

• Creates a new option (speech condition identifier) on state IDs and licenses by adding Subd.6c to 171.07.
• Establishes privacy safeguards by prohibiting the inclusion of medical details on the ID.
• Allows removal of the designation later during a replacement or renewal process, upon payment of a fee.

Practical Implications

• People with speech conditions can choose to display a visible indicator on their ID to communicate a speech-related need.
• The indicator is designed to avoid disclosing medical information, protecting privacy.
• Individuals can later remove the designation when renewing or replacing their ID, for a fee.

Potential Considerations

• Privacy vs. stigma: balancing the benefit of awareness with potential stigma from others who see the indicator.
• Implementation details are not specified, such as what the graphic or wording will look like, or how requests are processed.
• No medical information is stored on the ID; sensitive information remains private.

Relevant Terms

• speech condition identifier
• speech condition or disorder
• stuttering
• graphic or written identifier
• driver’s license
• Minnesota identification card
• written request
• commissioner
• Minnesota Statutes 2024 section 171.07
• Subd.6c
• replacement
• renewal
• designation
• fee