Authorizes distinctive license plates for veterans who served in the Afghanistan conflict

BILL NUMBER:S4931

Title of bill

An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to the issuance of distinctive plates for veterans of the Afghanistan conflict

Purpose or general idea of bill

Any veteran who resides in this State shall upon request, be issued a license plate bearing the words "Afghanistan Conflict Veteran." Application for the license plate shall be filed with the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles in such form and detail as the Commissioner shall prescribe.

The distinctive plate shall be issued upon proof, satisfactory to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles.

Justification

From the earliest days of the colonial period to the present, men and women have served as under appreciated heroes in every war and countless "unofficial" skirmishes and conflicts throughout the history of our nation. The issuance of distinctive license plates is a small way to recognize the contributions of veterans' participation in conflicts large and small, from the earliest days of unrest to the present day operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as recognizing their services during peacetime. These veterans are proud of their participation in combat and should have the opportunity, like countless others who have served our country, to demonstrate that pride. We should commemorate those who have made contributions or set precedents for future public service, as well as honor those who on a daily basis protect the rights and freedoms of our nation and state.

Prior legislative history

S.1969 of 2005/2006 S.593 of 2007/2008 S.2399 of 2009/2010 S.475 of 2011/2012

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the first of April next succeeding the date on which is shall have become a law.