Watching the news the other day, I saw a story that’s causing quite a stir. Oklahoma lawmakers recently passed a bill that allows pregnant women to get a temporary handicapped parking sticker and to park in handicapped parking spaces.

Should pregnant women be considered disabled and be allowed to park in handicapped parking spaces? Taking an unofficial poll of my family members and friends I discovered strong arguments for both sides.

My friend, pregnant with twins, says that pregnancy is not a disability. But it can cause disabilities (even though temporary) like mobility and breathing problems. She welcomes a law that let’s pregnant women qualify for handicapped parking privileges.

My sister’s third trimester was tough. Her back hurt, her feet were swollen and she had trouble walking – but she didn’t consider herself disabled. In her opinion, people should make accommodations for pregnant women out of kindness, not law.

My concern is about the shortage and abuse of handicapped parking spots. Often there aren’t enough handicapped spots available. Combine that with the scoundrels who park in handicapped spots without a legitimate placard and it’s even worse. Add pregnant women to the list of people vying for one of these spots and it’s the disabled people who suffer.

I think I like the kindness option the best. Help a pregnant woman by offering her your seat on the bus or carry her bags for her. And if you’re a business owner, why not post some Expectant Mother Parking Signs in your lot in addition to the Handicapped Parking Signs mandated by ADA regulations?

What do you think? Should there be a law allowing pregnant women to park in handicapped spaces?

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