Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill LD128

Introduced
1/10/23  
Refer
1/10/23  
Engrossed
5/3/23  
Enrolled
5/4/23  

Caption

An Act to Remove the Limit on Sets of Special Veterans Registration Plates

Impact

The removal of restrictions on the number of special veterans registration plates is expected to have a positive impact on veterans in Maine. It provides them with an opportunity to exhibit their military service across several vehicles without the constraint previously imposed by law. Additionally, this amendment allows for the issuance of special plates for motorcycles, which broadens the scope of the bill's applicability and reinforces the state’s recognition of veterans in various aspects. The revenue generated from these special plates will be retained by the Secretary of State to support the ongoing administration of the program, ensuring sustainability.

Summary

LD128, titled 'An Act to Remove the Limit on Sets of Special Veterans Registration Plates,' aims to amend existing statutes related to the issuance of special veterans registration plates. This legislation proposes the removal of the limit on the number of special registration plates that a qualifying veteran can obtain. The bill is designed to ensure that veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces and have been honorably discharged, or those currently serving, can showcase their status through multiple vehicles, including motorcycles. With this change, a qualifying veteran can receive special plates for each of their vehicles, promoting recognition of their service in a more visible manner.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding LD128 is largely positive, particularly among veteran groups and supporters who view this bill as a significant acknowledgment of their sacrifices and contributions. The ability to display multiple special plates is seen as a means of enhancing veteran visibility and pride. However, discussions around the bill did not present significant opposition, indicating a general consensus on the importance of providing benefits to veterans in this form.

Contention

While there were no major points of contention reported during discussions around LD128, the main focus was on the implications of the bill for veterans. One notable aspect is ensuring that only individuals honorably discharged can receive these special plates, thereby maintaining a level of exclusivity and respect associated with such recognitions. Additionally, the bill makes provision for the surviving spouses of veterans to retain special plates under certain conditions, which adds an emotional layer to the legislative intent of honoring service members even posthumously.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME HB06734

An Act Reducing For Veterans And Members Of The Armed Forces The Fee For Certain Specialty Motor Vehicle Number Plates To Not More Than The Cost To Make Such Plates.

ME HF292

A bill for an act relating to persons eligible for special registration plates with a veteran processed emblem.(See HF 779.)

ME HB5279

Vehicles: registration plates; individuals who served in the NOAACOC or USPHSCC; include in the definition of veteran and provide special registration plates for. Amends sec. 310 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.310) & adds secs. 803v & 803w.

ME HB4681

Vehicles: registration plates; service or conflict registration plate and disabled veteran tab; allow certain disabled veterans to request and the secretary of state to issue. Amends sec. 803f of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.803f).

ME HB5048

Vehicles: registration plates; special registration plates for the Cold War; provide for. Amends sec. 803e of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.803e).

ME HF779

A bill for an act relating to persons eligible for special registration plates with a veteran processed emblem.(Formerly HF 292.)

ME HB3267

Relating to veterans' recognition registration plates.

ME SB0532

Vehicles: registration plates; special registration plates for active duty military members; provide for. Amends sec. 803i of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.803i).

ME SB596

Relating to veterans' recognition registration plates.

ME SB0507

Vehicles: registration plates; next of kin special registration plate; create. Amends sec. 803e of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.803e).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.