Establishes a motor vehicle license plate to honor Roger Williams.
Summary
H5141 authorizes the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles to create and issue a special motor vehicle registration plate honoring Governor Roger Williams, identified in the bill as the first governor of what became the State of Rhode Island. The plate would display the designation “Gov. Roger Williams,” include a design chosen by the DMV, and bear the state seal. It would be issued for use on automobiles and commercial vehicles in the same manner as other commemorative plates, replacing the standard plates assigned to the vehicle while the registration certificate remains in the vehicle.
To obtain the plate, an applicant would pay the regular registration fee plus a $25 service charge and a $5 transfer charge. Of the additional charges, $15 would go to the DMV to cover manufacturing and distribution costs, and the remainder would be deposited into the general fund. The act would take effect immediately upon passage.
Impact
The bill would amend Rhode Island General Laws chapter 31-3, governing vehicle registration, by adding a new section specifically authorizing a commemorative license plate for Governor Roger Williams. It would expand the DMV’s authority to design, issue, and administer a new specialty plate program and would create a new revenue stream through added service and transfer fees, with funds split between DMV administrative costs and the state general fund. The measure would affect vehicle owners who choose to purchase the plate and the DMV as the administering agency.
Sentiment
The available record suggests generally positive or ceremonial support for the bill, with no recorded votes, committee transcript debate, or opposition in the materials provided. The bill’s purpose is commemorative rather than regulatory, and its caption and text indicate a straightforward effort to honor a historically significant figure in Rhode Island’s founding. Because there is no committee discussion or voting history included, there is no evidence of controversy in the record provided.
Contention
No specific points of contention are documented in the provided materials. Potential issues, if raised, would likely concern whether the state should create another specialty plate, the administrative burden on the DMV, or the use of public funds and fees for a commemorative program. However, the record does not show any stated objections, amendments, or divided positions from legislators or stakeholders.