Removes the additional $25 service charge for distinctive Elks Association license plates.
Summary
Bill S01871 aims to amend the vehicle and traffic law in New York by removing the additional $25 service charge for distinctive 'Elks Association' license plates. This change is intended to make it more financially accessible for members of the Elks Association to obtain these specialized plates, which serve as a form of identification and support for the organization. The bill proposes that these plates will be issued under the same conditions as standard license plates, with only the regular registration fee required.
Impact
If enacted, this bill will eliminate the extra financial burden on individuals wishing to support the Elks Association through distinctive license plates. It will amend existing provisions of the vehicle and traffic law, specifically section 404-z, to streamline the process and reduce costs associated with obtaining these plates. This could potentially lead to an increase in the number of Elks Association plates issued, thereby enhancing visibility and support for the organization.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S01871 appears to be generally positive, as indicated by the Senate Transportation Committee's vote, which passed with 11 in favor and only 2 against. This suggests a level of bipartisan support for the bill, reflecting a recognition of the value of supporting community organizations like the Elks Association.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support, there may be some contention regarding the removal of the service charge, as it could set a precedent for other organizations seeking similar exemptions. Opponents may argue that this could lead to a loss of revenue for the state or create pressure for additional exemptions for other groups, which could complicate the vehicle registration process.
Authorizes distinctive license plates for women veterans; directs that excess service charges collected be used to support programs that support women veterans at the direction of the commissioner of veterans' services.
Provides distinctive license plates for the parents, spouses, children, step-children, siblings, step-siblings, and grandparents of police officers killed in the line of duty; eliminates the registration fee for family member distinctive license plates.
Establishes a distinctive plate honoring recipients of the Girl Scout Gold Award for which the regular registration fee will apply plus an initial one time service charge of $25.
Waives the registration fee and service charge for distinctive plates for volunteer firefighters and members of volunteer ambulance services where the applicant has attended twenty-five percent or more of the emergency calls for the previous year.
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".