To amend sections 4507.01, 4507.06, 4507.13, 4507.51, and 4507.52 of the Revised Code to allow a driver's license and a state identification card to indicate that the licensee or cardholder is a Gold Star Family member.
Summary
HB632 would amend Ohio’s driver’s license and state identification card laws to add a new optional designation for Gold Star Family members. The bill defines a “Gold Star family member” as an immediate family member of a person who died in a combat zone while serving in any branch of the U.S. armed forces, and it authorizes applicants to request that this status be indicated on either a driver’s license or state ID card. The bill also specifies the symbol to be used: a folded military burial flag with golden stars and the words “Gold Star Family,” with the exact size and placement left to the registrar of motor vehicles.
To implement that change, the bill amends the application and issuance provisions in Chapter 4507 of the Revised Code. It adds questions to license and ID applications asking whether the applicant is a Gold Star Family member and whether they want the designation displayed, and it requires documentation as determined by the registrar. It also adds corresponding display requirements for both driver’s licenses and identification cards, alongside existing optional markers for veterans, active duty service members, reservists, and certain health-care directives. The bill does not require anyone to obtain the designation; it is purely optional.
Impact
HB632 would change Ohio Revised Code sections 4507.01, 4507.06, 4507.13, 4507.51, and 4507.52 by creating a new statutory category and adding a new optional symbol to state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The practical effect would be to give the Bureau of Motor Vehicles authority to collect documentation, update application forms, and print the Gold Star Family symbol on qualifying credentials. It would affect applicants who are eligible as Gold Star Family members, as well as the registrar and deputy registrars responsible for administering license and ID issuance.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have a generally supportive and commemorative purpose, reflecting recognition of military families who lost a loved one in combat. Because the bill was only introduced and there are no recorded committee transcripts or votes in the provided materials, there is no documented opposition or formal debate to indicate broader sentiment. Based on the bill’s narrow scope and veterans-focused caption, the available context suggests a favorable or at least noncontroversial reception at introduction.
Contention
No specific points of contention are documented in the available materials. Potential issues, if raised later, would likely center on how Gold Star Family status is verified, what documentation the registrar may require, and whether adding another optional credential designation creates administrative burden or privacy concerns. However, the bill text itself leaves those details to the registrar and does not show any recorded disagreement from committee members or other stakeholders.
To amend sections 3517.12, 3517.13, and 3517.155 of the Revised Code to modify the Campaign Finance Law regarding foreign nationals and statewide initiatives and referenda and to declare an emergency.
To amend sections 3517.12, 3517.13, and 3517.155 of the Revised Code to modify the Campaign Finance Law regarding foreign nationals and statewide initiatives and referenda and to declare an emergency.
To amend sections 3505.01 and 3505.10 of the Revised Code to modify the deadline for a political party to certify its nominees for President and Vice-President to the Secretary of State.
To delay the deadline for a major political party to certify its presidential and vice presidential candidates to the Secretary of State for the 2024 general election.