HB 313 amends Florida’s toll exemption statute to add a new category of exempt users: a person operating a motor vehicle displaying a Purple Heart specialty license plate or a motorcycle displaying a Purple Heart special motorcycle license plate. In practical terms, the bill extends toll-free access on Florida toll facilities to Purple Heart medal recipients who have obtained the appropriate specialty plate, aligning their toll treatment with other statutorily exempt groups such as certain government, emergency, and disability-related users.
The bill does not create a new toll program or alter toll collection generally; it makes a targeted change to section 338.155, Florida Statutes, by expanding the list of exempt vehicles. The effective date is July 1, 2025. The change affects toll facility operators and qualifying Purple Heart recipients, and it may reduce toll revenue modestly depending on usage by eligible drivers.
Impact
HB 313 revises Florida Statutes section 338.155 to broaden toll exemptions for Purple Heart medal recipients by tying eligibility to display of a Purple Heart specialty license plate or special motorcycle license plate. This changes state law governing toll facilities by adding a new exempt class of vehicles, while leaving the rest of the toll collection framework intact. The bill primarily affects Purple Heart recipients, toll authorities, and drivers using Florida toll roads and bridges.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have been received very positively and without recorded opposition. It passed every listed House committee and the House floor unanimously, with vote totals of 14-0, 16-0, 24-0, and 111-0. The voting history suggests broad bipartisan support and a consensus view that the measure is a modest benefit for veterans who earned the Purple Heart.
Contention
There is little visible contention in the available record, and no committee transcripts were provided showing debate. Any potential concerns would likely center on the policy choice to grant a toll exemption and the resulting loss of toll revenue, but no members are shown opposing the bill. The measure’s narrow scope and its focus on Purple Heart recipients likely limited controversy.