Driver’s licenses: veteran designation.
The bill aims to improve access for veterans who wish to identify themselves as such on their driver's licenses or ID cards, reflecting California's intention to honor their service. By removing the financial impediment, the bill is expected to encourage participation amongst state veterans who may have previously been deterred by the cost of the designation. It also streamlines the processes involved by aligning with policies that support veterans while ensuring that verification of veteran status remains intact through established procedures.
Assembly Bill No. 1873 aims to amend the Vehicle Code to facilitate the designation of veterans on California driver's licenses and identification cards. This legislation allows individuals verified as veterans to request the word 'VETERAN' printed on their licenses without any additional fees. Previously, a fee structure was in place that required a $5 fee for the designation, which the Department of Motor Vehicles could potentially raise to $15 under certain circumstances. However, under AB 1873, this fee would be made inoperative starting July 1, 2019, and later repealed by January 1, 2020, thus eliminating the financial barrier for veteran applicants seeking this designation.
The general sentiment surrounding AB 1873 appears largely positive, especially among veteran advocacy groups and legislators who support measures honoring military service. Supporters argue that identifying veterans on official documents fosters a sense of pride and recognition within the community. However, there could be concerns regarding bureaucratic implementation, as ensuring proper verification without fees must be executed effectively to prevent misuse.
While the legislation primarily enjoys support, there may be concerns raised about the potential for fraudulent applications, as removing fees could raise concerns about the integrity of the verification process. Additionally, the successful execution of the bill hinges on the coordination between the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure consistent practices in designating veterans, which can be a point of contention in administrative discussions.