Removes the requirement that the applicant for a Bronze Star Medal license plate pay a registration fee or transfer charge.
Summary
H5049 amends Rhode Island’s vehicle registration law to change the rules for special license plates issued to recipients of the United States Bronze Star Medal. Under current law, the Division of Motor Vehicles may issue a Bronze Star Medal plate for eligible automobiles and certain commercial vehicles, and the plate must display the medal designation and insignia. The bill keeps that special plate program in place but removes the requirement that applicants pay the registration fee and the $5 transfer charge for the plate.
The bill also preserves the existing provision allowing a Bronze Star Medal plate to be transferred to a surviving spouse after the holder’s death, for the spouse’s lifetime or until remarriage. The act is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.
Impact
This bill narrows the financial obligations associated with obtaining a Bronze Star Medal specialty plate by eliminating the registration fee and transfer charge for applicants. It amends Rhode Island General Laws § 31-3-48.2 in the chapter governing vehicle registration, affecting the Division of Motor Vehicles’ administration of military honor plates and reducing costs for eligible Bronze Star Medal recipients and their families.
Sentiment
The available voting history shows strong support for the bill, with the House passing it unanimously 68-0 on June 3, 2025. No committee transcript discussion was provided, but the recorded vote suggests broad bipartisan approval and little visible opposition to waiving the fees for this veteran recognition plate.
Contention
No substantive contention is evident in the provided materials. The bill appears to be a straightforward fee waiver for a military honor plate, and the unanimous vote indicates that any concerns about lost revenue or administrative changes did not generate recorded opposition. The measure’s focus on honoring Bronze Star Medal recipients likely contributed to the lack of disagreement.