Authorizes distinctive license plates for recipients of the Bronze or Silver star.
Summary
A03181 would amend New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law to create a new distinctive license plate for recipients of the Bronze Star or Silver Star, and, in some cases, for their spouses. Eligible applicants who reside in New York could request a plate bearing the words “Bronze star recipient” or “Silver star recipient,” subject to proof satisfactory to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. The bill specifies that if the recipient themselves receives the plate, the spouse may not receive the same distinctive plate under this section.
The plates would be issued through the normal registration process and would require payment of the regular registration fee plus a one-time $10 service charge. The bill also directs that, one year after the effective date, up to $5,000 be allocated to the Department of Motor Vehicles to help offset production costs. The act would take effect 120 days after becoming law.
Impact
The bill would add a new section 404-ff to the Vehicle and Traffic Law, expanding the state’s menu of military-related distinctive license plates. Its practical effect would be limited to eligible Bronze Star and Silver Star recipients and, in certain circumstances, their spouses, while imposing a small additional fee and administrative proof requirement. It would also authorize a modest state allocation to cover DMV production expenses.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee debate or votes in the provided materials, the measure appears to be a straightforward honorary recognition bill with no documented opposition in the available record. Its framing suggests a generally positive sentiment toward honoring military service and valor through a specialty plate program.
Contention
No committee transcripts or vote history were provided, so no specific points of contention are documented. Potential issues, if raised, would likely concern whether spouses should be eligible, the added administrative burden of verifying eligibility, and whether the $10 fee and $5,000 allocation are sufficient to cover program costs. However, none of these concerns are reflected in the supplied record.
Authorizes the issuance of "Blue Star Mother" and "Blue Star Family" distinctive license plates for parents and family members of active duty service members; establishes the "blue star mothers and families support fund".