July 14, 2025
At Able South Carolina, we’re committed to building communities that support everyone, including people with disabilities and pregnant people. We know the proposed changes to ADA parking come from a place of compassion, and we appreciate the bipartisan support from lawmakers who care about the well-being of South Carolina families.
We’re aware that members of the General Assembly are considering a bill, similar to one passed in Florida, that would allow pregnant people to use parking spaces required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). While the intent is good, it’s essential to recognize the serious risks of changing how federally protected spaces are used.
ADA parking is not about convenience; it’s a civil right. These spaces exist so people with disabilities can safely access work, healthcare, and community life. The ADA sets the bare minimum standard for accessibility, and even now, disabled South Carolinians regularly struggle to find available spaces.
While pregnancy can bring physical challenges, it is not automatically considered a disability under federal law. The ADA defines disability as a condition that substantially limits one or more major life activities. If a pregnancy-related complication meets that definition, pregnant people may qualify now, and in that case, someone can apply for a temporary disability placard to access ADA parking.
But expanding ADA parking access to all pregnant people, regardless of disability status, would strain an already limited system. Many communities lack sufficient ADA-compliant spaces, and enforcement is often inadequate. Broadening access to other community groups could unintentionally block disabled people from parking altogether.
That’s why we’re working closely with Representative Caskey and others to find a win-win solution, one that supports pregnant people without weakening disability rights and access.
This is a meaningful conversation, and it comes from the right place. But disability access is not negotiable; it’s the law. We can protect those rights and support families at the same time. We’re committed to helping South Carolina get it right.
— Able South Carolina