Purpose

This bill would add a new option for Minnesota-issued identification by allowing a speech condition identifier to appear on a driver’s license or Minnesota identification card. The goal is to visibly indicate a speech condition or disorder (including but not limited to stuttering) so approved holders can communicate their needs more easily in everyday interactions.

Main provisions

• Creates a new subdivision (Subd. 6c) within Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 171.07.
• Upon a written request from the applicant, the secretary of the relevant department must issue a driver’s license or Minnesota identification card that bears a graphic or written identifier for a speech condition or disorder (including but not limited to stuttering).
• The designation on the license or ID must not include any specific medical information about the individual.
• If the applicant requests a replacement or renewal and pays the required fee, the department must issue a new license or ID without the designation upon request.

How it changes existing law

• Adds a new option to include a speech condition identifier on state-issued IDs, expanding the ways a person can communicate needs during interactions with others.
• Establishes privacy protection by prohibiting the inclusion of any medical details on the card itself.
• Provides a pathway to remove the designation at renewal or replacement, upon payment of the applicable fee.

Practical impact

• Individuals with speech conditions can opt to display a marker on their ID or license to signal a need for consideration in conversations or during encounters with authorities, service providers, or others.
• The designation is removable, preserving flexibility for the card holder.

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