Relates to the issuance of a distinctive license plate for Iraq War and War in Afghanistan veterans

Title of bill

An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to the issuance of a distinctive license plate for Iraq War and War in Afghanistan veterans

Purpose

This bill amends the vehicle and traffic law to add a new section authorizing the issuance of distinctive license plates bearing the words "Iraq War Veteran" or "War in Afghanistan Veteran".

Summary of provisions

Section 1: Provides that any qualifying Iraq War or War in Afghanistan veteran or the spouse of any such veteran shall, upon request, be issued a license plate bearing the words "Iraq War Veteran" or "War in Afghanistan Veteran". The distinctive plates shall be issued in the same manner as other member plates upon payment of the regular registration fee and an additional one time service charge of ten dollars for such plate.

Section 2: Provides that that a distinctive plate shall only be designed, produced, and issued upon the delivery of a surety bond in the amount of $6000 or at least 200 orders for such distinctive plate with the additional service charge applicable to each order. All of the additional service charge will be deposited in the DMV distinctive place development fund. The language also provides that if after two years following the date upon which the plate is first made available for sale 200 or more sets of plates are sold, the bond shall be discontinued. If fewer than 200 plates are sold within the first 2 years, the DMV shall be entitled to recover against the bond in the amount proportionate to the short fall.

Section 3: Provides the effective date.

Justification

Currently, New York State offers distinctive license plates for a number of veterans who have served our country in the time of various wars and battles. These plates are available for Korean War Veterans, Pearl Harbor Survivors, Persian Gulf Veterans, Vietnam Veterans, War on Terror Veterans and World War II Veterans. This bill would add those who served in the Iraq War and the War in Afghanistan to the list of those who would be eligible to receive a distinctive license plate. We owe a great deal to those who serve our country, who put their lives on the line to protect and defend our country. Providing distinctive plates for veterans who have served us in a time of war is a recognition of their service and sacrifices.

Legislative history

New bill.

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it shall become a law; provided, however, that section two of this act shall take effect immediately; provided further, however, that effective immediately, the addition, amendment and/or repeal of any rule or regulation necessary for the implementation of this act on its effective date is authorized and directed to be made and completed on or before such effective date.