Relates to creating a distinctive plate for combat veterans having served in the navy, marine corps, air force or coast guard.
Summary
Bill A05951 proposes the creation of distinctive license plates for combat veterans who have served in the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard. The plates will feature specific wording identifying the branch of service and will be available to both veterans and their spouses, although a distinctive plate can only be issued to one party at a time. Applicants must provide proof of military service and pay a one-time service charge of ten dollars in addition to the regular registration fee. The bill outlines the process for issuing these plates and includes provisions for ensuring that the costs of design and production are covered by the service charges collected.
Impact
If enacted, this bill will amend the vehicle and traffic law in New York to establish a new category of license plates specifically for combat veterans. It will create a mechanism for veterans to receive recognition through their vehicle registration, while also generating a potential revenue stream for the Department of Motor Vehicles through the service charges associated with these plates. The bill also sets a threshold for the issuance of the plates, requiring a minimum of 200 orders to avoid the necessity of a surety bond, which could impact the speed at which these plates are made available.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill A05951 appears to be generally positive, as it aims to honor and recognize the service of combat veterans. However, without available voting history or committee discussions, it is difficult to gauge any significant opposition or concerns raised by lawmakers or the public regarding the specifics of the bill.
Contention
One potential point of contention could arise regarding the requirement that a distinctive plate can only be issued to either a veteran or their spouse, but not both. This stipulation may lead to discussions about fairness and recognition among families of veterans. Additionally, the requirement for a surety bond unless a minimum number of plates are ordered could also be a topic of debate, as it places a financial prerequisite on the issuance of these plates.
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.
Motor vehicle registration; authorize a distinctive license plate for military combat action; authorize a criminal penalty for falsely obtaining the license plate