New York Assembly Bill A00371

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Authorizes the issuance of distinctive legion of valor license plates for individuals who have received the army medal of honor, navy medal of honor, air force medal of honor, army distinguished service cross, navy cross, coast guard cross, or air force cross.

Summary

This bill authorizes the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles to issue distinctive “Legion of Valor” license plates to state residents who have received one of several high military honors: the Army Medal of Honor, Navy Medal of Honor, Air Force Medal of Honor, Army Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, Coast Guard Cross, or Air Force Cross. Applicants would need to provide proof of eligibility, and the plate would display the words “legion of valor” along with the recipient’s military award decal. The bill provides that these plates would be issued without a registration fee or service charge to the recipient. It also establishes the usual DMV distinctive-plate funding mechanism: a surety bond is required before production unless the DMV receives at least 200 paid orders in advance, and the bond can later be discontinued if the plate series reaches 200 sales within two years. The bill takes effect immediately, with the plate authorization itself effective 180 days after enactment.

Impact

The bill would amend the Vehicle and Traffic Law by adding a new section authorizing a special license plate category for highly decorated military veterans and service members. It also interacts with the State Finance Law and DMV distinctive-plate funding rules by using the existing distinctive plate development fund and bond/advance-order requirements to cover design, production, and distribution costs. The practical effect is to create a no-fee commemorative plate option for eligible recipients while imposing administrative and proof-of-service requirements on the DMV.

Sentiment

The available voting history suggests generally favorable but not unanimous support. In the Assembly Transportation Committee, the bill was held for consideration on a 16-7 vote, indicating that a majority supported moving it forward but a notable minority had reservations. No transcript excerpts are available, so the record shows support for honoring military award recipients, tempered by some committee opposition or concern.

Contention

The main point of contention appears to be whether the state should create and administer another specialty plate program, especially one that waives fees for recipients and relies on the DMV’s distinctive-plate financing process. Opponents may have been concerned about administrative burden, costs, or the need for sufficient demand to justify production, while supporters likely emphasized recognition of extraordinary military service and the symbolic value of the “Legion of Valor” designation. The 16-7 committee vote reflects that the honorific purpose was broadly accepted, but not without disagreement over implementation and fiscal mechanics.