This docum ent does not reflect the intent or official position of the bill sponsor or House of Representatives.
STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC
DATE: 2/15/2024
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES STAFF ANALYSIS
BILL #: CS/CS/HB 403 Specialty License Plates
SPONSOR(S): Infrastructure Strategies Committee, Transportation & Modals Subcommittee, Chaney and
others
TIED BILLS: IDEN./SIM. BILLS: CS/SB 434
REFERENCE ACTION ANALYST STAFF DIRECTOR or
BUDGET/POLICY CHIEF
1) Transportation & Modals Subcommittee 16 Y, 0 N, As CS Walker Hinshelwood
2) Infrastructure Strategies Committee 25 Y, 0 N, As CS Walker Harrington
SUMMARY ANALYSIS
Currently, there are 113 specialty license plates available for sale and an additional 30 in presale. Specialty
license plates are available to the owner or lessee of any motor vehicle who is willing to pay an annual use fee,
in addition to the required license tax and fees. The collected fees are distributed by the Department of
Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) to statutorily designated organizations in support of a particular
cause or charity.
The bill:
Exempts Florida collegiate license plates from the presale voucher requirement and the annual
discontinuation process for specialty license plates;
Allows discontinued collegiate license plates to be reauthorized by DHSMV;
Replaces the phrase “In God We Trust” with “Protect the Eagle” on the bottom of the American Eagle
License Plate design; and
Renames the Give Kids The World License Plate to establish the Universal Orlando Resort License
Plate.
The bill also creates the following new specialty license plates with an annual use fee of $25:
Margaritaville
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
General Aviation
The Villages: May All Your Dreams Come True
Cure Diabetes
Recycle Florida
Boating Capital of the World
Project Addiction: Reversing the Stigma
United Service Organizations (USO)
The bill will have a negative, but insignificant, fiscal impact to state expenditures associated with DHSMV’s
programming costs for the specialty license plates.
The bill has an effective date of October 1, 2024. STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 2
DATE: 2/15/2024
FULL ANALYSIS
I. SUBSTANTIVE ANALYSIS
A. EFFECT OF PROPOSED CHANGES:
Background: Specialty License Plates Generally
Currently, there are 113 specialty license plates available for sale and an additional 30 in presale.
1
Specialty license plates are available to the owner or lessee of any motor vehicle who is willing to pay
an annual use fee, in addition to the required license tax and fees.
2
The annual use fees range from
$15-$25,
3
and are distributed directly to the sponsoring organization or other entity as designated in
statute.
4
In order to establish a specialty license plate, an organization must first receive approval by law. Once
this approval has been granted, the organization has 60 days to submit the proposed art design for the
specialty license plate to DHSMV.
5
Within 120 days of the specialty license plate becoming law,
DHSMV must establish a method to issue presale vouchers for the specialty license plate. The
applicant for a specialty license plate pays a $5 processing fee
6
, a $2.50 service charge, a $.50 branch
fee
7
, and the annual use fee.
8
All other applicable fees are paid at the time of issuance of the specialty
license plate.
9
After the presale vouchers are established, the organization has 24 months to obtain a minimum of
3,000 voucher sales before manufacturing of the plate can begin.
10
If the minimum sales requirement
has not been met by the end of the 24-month presale period, the specialty license plate is deauthorized
and DHSMV must discontinue the development of the plate and issuance of the presale vouchers.
Upon deauthorization of the license plate or if the plate has met the presale requirement but has not
been issued, a purchaser of the license plate voucher may use the annual use fee paid as a credit
towards any other specialty license plate or may apply for a refund.
11
New specialty license plates that have been approved by law but are awaiting issuance will be issued
in the order they appear in s. 320.08058, F.S., provided that they have met all statutory requirements,
including the presale requirement. If the next listed specialty license plate has not met the presale
requirement, DHSMV will proceed in the order provided in s. 320.08058, F.S., to identify the next
qualified specialty license plate that has met the presale requirement. DHSMV must cycle through the
list in statutory order.
12
The number of specialty license plates issued cannot exceed 135. If the Legislature approves more
than 135 specialty license plates, DHSMV cannot issue any new specialty license plates until a
sufficient number of plates are discontinued in order to not exceed the limit.
13
1
Email from Jonas Marquez, Director of Legislative Affairs, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Specialty
License Plates Questions, (Feb. 9, 2024).
2
S. 320.08056(2)(a), F.S.
3
S. 320.08056(3)(d), F.S., states that the annual use fee for any specialty license plate is $25, except if otherwise
specified in s. 320.08056(4), F.S.
4
S. 320.08058, F.S.
5
S. 320.08053(1), F.S.
6
The processing fee is prescribed in s. 320.08056, F.S.
7
The service charge and branch fee are prescribed in s. 320.04, F.S.
8
The annual use fee us prescribed in s. 320.08056, F.S.
9
S. 320.08053(2)(a), F.S.
10
Chapter 2022-189, Laws of Fla., extended the presale requirement by an additional 24 months for an approved
specialty license plate organization that, as of June 15, 2022, is in the presale period but had not recorded at least 3,000
voucher sales.
11
S. 320.08053(2)(b), F.S.
12
S. 320.08053(3)(a), F.S.
13
S. 320.08053(3)(b), F.S. STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 3
DATE: 2/15/2024
DHSMV must discontinue the issuance of an approved specialty license plate if the number of valid
specialty license plate registrants falls below 3,000 plates for 12 consecutive months. A warning letter
is mailed to the sponsoring organization following the first month in which the total number of valid
specialty plate registrations falls below 3,000. For out-of-state college or university plates, this number
is 4,000.
14
This requirement does not apply to in-state collegiate license plates established under
s. 320.08058(3), F.S., license plates of institutions in and entities of the State University System,
specialty license plates that have statutory eligibility limitations for purchase, specialty license plates for
which annual use fees are distributed by a foundation for student and teacher leadership programs and
teacher recruitment and retention, or Florida professional sports team license plates established under
s. 320.08058(9), F.S.
15
DHSMV may discontinue the issuance of a specialty license plate and distribution of associated annual
use fee proceeds if the organization no longer exists, stops providing services that are authorized to be
funded from the annual use fee proceeds, or pursuant to an organizational recipient’s request.
16
On January 1 of each year, DHSMV must discontinue the specialty license plate with the fewest
number of plates in circulation, including specialty license plates exempt from the sales requirement. A
warning letter is mailed to the organizations in the lowest ten percent of valid, active specialty license
plate registrations as of December 1 of each year.
17
The annual use fees collected by an organization and any interest earned from those fees may not be
used for commercial or for-profit activities, or general or administrative expenses, unless authorized by
s. 320.08058, F.S.
18
Further, the annual use fees and interest earned from those fees may not be used
for the purpose of marketing to, or lobbying, entertaining, or rewarding an employee of a governmental
agency that is responsible for the sale and distribution of specialty license plates, or any elected
member or employee of the Legislature.
19
Annual use fees collected by an organization and any interest earned from those fees may be
expended only in Florida, unless the annual use fees are derived from the sale of United States Armed
Forces or veterans-related specialty license plates.
20
Additionally, organizations receiving annual use
fees must submit an annual audit or attestation document to DHSMV that proceeds were used in
compliance with the applicable specialty license plate statutes.
21
Collegiate License Plates
Current Situation
Each state and independent university in Florida has the ability to develop a collegiate license plate if
authorized by an act of the Legislature. The specialty license plate fees collected must be used by the
respective foundation for academic enhancement, including scholarships and private fundraising
activities, in a plan approved by the Board of Governors of the State University System.
22
Currently,
there are 41 specialty collegiate license plates in circulation.
23
Effect of the Bill
The bill:
Exempts a collegiate license plate from being discontinued based on having the fewest number
of plates in circulation.
14
S. 320.08056(8)(a), F.S.
15
Id.
16
S. 320.08056(8)(b), F.S.
17
S. 320.08056(8)(f), F.S.
18
S. 320.08056(10)(a), F.S.
19
S. 320.08056(11), F.S.
20
S. 320.08056 (10)(a), F.S.
21
S. 320.08062, F.S. Annual use fees may be used to pay for the cost of this required audit or report. See
s. 320.08056(10)(a), F.S.
22
S. 320.08058(3), F.S.
23
DHSMV, Supra note 1. STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 4
DATE: 2/15/2024
Exempts collegiate license plates from presale voucher requirements.
Allows a previously discontinued collegiate license plate to be reauthorized by DHSMV if the
university resubmits the collegiate license plate for authorization.
American Eagle License Plate
Current Situation
Florida law currently authorizes the development of an American Eagle License Plate.
24
The specialty
plate is required to:
Bear the colors and design approved by DHSMV; and
Have the word “Florida” appear at the top of the plate and the words “In God We Trust” appear
at the bottom of the plate.
25
The annual use fees from the sale of the plate must be distributed to the American Eagle Foundation
for deposit in the foundation’s national endowment fund. Up to 10 percent of the funds received may be
used for administrative costs and marketing of the plate. The remainder of the proceeds may be used
by the American Eagle Foundation to fund public education programs, rescue and care programs, and
other conservation efforts in Florida that benefit bald eagles.
26
The plate has sold 145 presale vouchers and must sell an additional 2,855 presale vouchers in order to
be placed in production.
27
Effect of the Bill
The bill replaces the phrase “In God We Trust” with “Protect the Eagle” on the bottom of the American
Eagle license plate design.
Universal Orlando Resort License Plate
Current Situation
Give Kids the World License Plate
Florida law currently authorizes the development of a Give Kids The World license plate.
28
The
specialty plate is required to:
Bear the colors and design approved by DHSMV; and
Have the word “Florida” appear at the top of the plate and the words “Give Kids The World”
appear at the bottom of the plate.
29
The annual use fees from the sale of the plate must be distributed to Give Kids The World, Inc., a
nonprofit organization under s. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Up to 10 percent of the
proceeds may be used for the promotion and marketing of the plate. The remainder of the proceeds
may be used by Give Kids The World, Inc., to support their mission of providing week-long, cost-free
vacations to children with critical illnesses and their families.
30
24
S. 320.08058(95), F.S.
25
Id.
26
Id.
27
This data is as of January 29, 2024, which is the most recently available data on the DHSMV website. FLHSMV,
SPECIALTY LICENSE PLATES: P re-Sale Data, https://www.flhsmv.gov/motor-vehicles-tags-titles/personalized-specialty-
license-plates/specialty-license-plates/pre-sale-data/ (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
28
S. 320.08058(107), F.S.
29
Id.
30
Id. STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 5
DATE: 2/15/2024
The plate has sold 116 presale vouchers and must sell an additional 2,884 presale vouchers in order to
be placed in production.
31
Give Kids The World and Universal Orlando Resort Partnership
Give Kids The World provides week-long, cost-free vacations to children with critical illnesses and their
families. Since 1990, Universal Orlando Resort has assisted Give Kids The World, Inc. by:
Providing free tickets, guest assistance passes, souvenirs, and costume characters;
Creating and funding the Give Kids the World’s Dinosaur-themed and fully interactive miniature
golf course; and
Providing their employees as volunteers.
32
Effect of the Bill
The bill renames the Give Kids The World license plate in order to establish the Universal Orlando
Resort license plate and revises the design of such plate to replace the words “Give Kids The World”
with the words “Universal Orlando Resort” at the bottom of the plate.
Margaritaville License Plate
Current Situation
SFC Charitable Foundation, Inc, also known as Singing for Change, was founded by Jimmy Buffett in
1995 and is a Florida not-for-profit corporation registered with the Florida Department of State (DOS).
33
According to the organization’s website, Singing for Change supports small nonprofits by providing
such entities with grants that aim to create positive social change within communities and help
individuals become more self-sufficient. The organization focuses on low-income communities or
people living in poverty.
34
Effect of the Bill
The bill creates the Margaritaville license plate, with an annual use fee of $25
35
. The plate must bear
DHSMV-approved colors and designs, with “Florida” appearing at the top of the plate and
“Margaritaville” appearing at the bottom of the plate.
The annual use fees from the sale of the plate must be distributed to the SFC Charitable Foundation,
Inc, also known as Singing for Change, which may use up to 10 percent of such fees for administrative
costs and marketing of the plate. The balance of the fees must be used by SFC Charitable Foundation,
Inc., and must be distributed with the approval of, and accountability to, the board of directors of the
SFC Charitable Foundation, Inc. to:
Provide grants to nonprofit organizations in communities impacted by natural and manmade
disasters for recovery, rebuilding, and future sustainability; and
Promote and inspire grassroots leadership that will work to improve the quality of life in those
communities and others in this state.
31
This data is as of January 29, 2024, which is the most recently available data on the DHSMV website. FLHSMV,
SPECIALTY LICENSE PLATES: Pre -Sale Data, https://www.flhsmv.gov/motor-vehicles-tags-titles/personalized-specialty-
license-plates/specialty-license-plates/pre-sale-data/ (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
32
Give Kids The World Village, Universal Orlando Resort, https://www.gktw.org/help/bio/universal.php (last visited Feb. 8,
2024).
33
SFC Charitable Foundation, Inc., Articles of Incorporation,
https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/ConvertTiffToPDF?storagePath=COR%5C1407%5C0118%5CAR014
708.tif&documentNumber=N94000005329 (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
34
Singing For Change, Mission Statement, https://www.singingforchange.org/mission-statement (last visited Feb. 8,
2024).
35
S. 320.08056(3)(d), F.S. STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 6
DATE: 2/15/2024
Clearwater Marine Aquarium License Plate
Current Situation
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, is dedicated to marine
mammal research and environmental conservation; marine life rescue, rehabilitation, and release;
animal care; and environmental education.
36
The aquarium is located in Clearwater, Florida; and, according to the DOS, the Clearwater Aquarium,
Inc. is an active Florida not-for-profit corporation that has been active since March 23, 1972.
37
Effect of the Bill
The bill creates the Clearwater Marine Aquarium license plate, with an annual use fee of $25
38
. The
plate must bear DHSMV-approved colors and designs, with “Florida” appearing at the top of the plate
and “Clearwater Marine Aquarium” appearing at the bottom of the plate.
The annual use fees from the sale of the plate must be distributed to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium,
Inc. Up to 10 percent of the fees from the sale of the plate may be used for the administration,
promotion, and marketing of the plate. The aquarium must use the remainder of the fees to fund its
efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine life; provide environmental education; conduct
research; and promote conservation strategies.
General Aviation License Plate
Current Situation
The Aerospace Center for Excellence, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, is dedicated to providing the
next generation with experiences and opportunities in aviation to help those pursuing a career in a
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) field. The center offers a range of year-
round educational programs for all ages, including summer camps and field trip opportunities.
39
The
center also provides annual scholarships for students to pursue a private pilot certificate, advanced
rating, industry certification, or college degree.
40
The center is located in Polk County at the Lakeland Linder International Airport, and according to the
DOS, the Aerospace Center for Excellence is an active Florida not-for-profit corporation that has been
active since November 1, 2000.
41
Effect of the Bill
The bill creates the General Aviation license plate, with an annual use fee of $25
42
. The plate must
bear DHSMV-approved colors and designs, with “Florida” appearing at the top of the plate and
“Support General Aviation” appearing at the bottom of the plate.
The annual use fees from the sale of the plate must be distributed to the Aerospace Center for
Excellence located in Lakeland. The Aerospace Center for Excellence may use up to 10 percent of
such fees for administrative costs and marketing of the plate. The balance of the fees may be used by
the Aerospace Center for Excellence to fund scholarships for students in this state who are pursuing
careers in the field of aviation.
36
Clearwater Marine Aquarium, What We Do, https://mission.cmaquarium.org/what-we-do/ (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
37
Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Inc., Articles of Incorporation,
https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/ConvertTiffToPDF?storagePath=COR%5C2014%5C0716%5C62340
728.Tif&documentNumber=722979 (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
38
S. 320.08056(3)(d), F.S.
39
Aerospace Center for Excellence, About, https://aceedu.org/about/ (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
40
Aerospace Center for Excellence, Scholarships, https://aceedu.org/scholarships/ (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
41
Aerospace Center for Excellence, Inc., Articles of Incorporation,
https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/ConvertTiffToPDF?storagePath=COR%5C2000%5C1103%5C70447
177.tif&documentNumber=N00000007283 (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
42
S. 320.08056(3)(d), F.S. STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 7
DATE: 2/15/2024
The Villages: May All Your Dreams Come True License Plate
Current Situation
The Villages Charter School, Inc. is a Florida not-for-profit corporation registered with the DOS.
43
The
Villages Charter School, Inc. has a contract with the Sumter County School Board and is dedicated to
nurturing productive citizens and life-long learners through an integrated, relevant curriculum tailored to
the individual needs of its students.
44
The Village Charter School offers K-12 curriculum at its six
attendance centers.
45
Effect of the Bill
The bill creates The Villages: May All Your Dreams Come True license plate, with an annual use fee of
$25
46
. The plate must bear DHSMV-approved colors and designs, with “Florida” appearing at the top of
the plate and “The Villages: May All Your Dreams Come True” appearing at the bottom of the plate.
The annual use fees from the sale of the plate must be distributed to The Villages Charter School, Inc.
Up to 10 percent of the fees may be used for administrative costs and marketing of the plate. The
remaining funds must be distributed with the approval of, and accountability to, the board of directors of
The Villages Charter School, Inc. and must be used to provide support to The Villages Charter School
as it provides K-12 education.
Cure Diabetes License Plate
Current Situation
The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation, Inc.
The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation, Inc. is a Florida not-for-profit corporation registered with
the DOS
47
with a mission to provide the funding necessary to cure diabetes through research.
48
The
Diabetes Research Institute is a designated Center of Excellence at the University of Miami Miller
School of Medicine, providing informative education and training programs for many types of health
care professionals and industry representatives.
49
JDRF International Incorporated
JDRF International Incorporated is an international, non-profit organization registered with the DOS.
50
The foundation has a Northern and Southern Florida Chapter. The local chapters serve as the hub of
43
The Villages Charter School, Inc., Articles of Incorporation,
https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/ConvertTiffToPDF?storagePath=COR%5C1999%5C0908%5CH9022
104.TIF&documentNumber=N99000005259 (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
44
The Villages Charter School, Charter School in the Workplace,
https://www.tvcs.org/centralOffice/charterInTheWorkplace/charterInTheWorkplace.asp (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
45
The Villages Charter School, Central Office, https://www.tvcs.org/centralOffice/centraloffice.asp (last visited Feb. 8,
2024).
46
S. 320.08056(3)(d), F.S.
47
The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation, Inc., Articles of Incorporation,
https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/SearchResultDetail?inquirytype=EntityName&directionType=Initial&s
earchNameOrder=DIABETESRESEARCHINSTITUTEFOUND%207298461&aggregateId=domnp -729846-215a7797-
ce70-42a0-821f-
1c4bdfb16616&searchTerm=The%20Diabetes%20Research%20Institute%20Foundation&listNameOrder=DIABETESRE
SEARCHINSTITUTEFOUND%207298461 (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
48
Diabetes Research Institute Foundation, About Us, https://diabetesresearch.org/about-dri-foundation/ (last visited Feb.
8, 2024).
49
Diabetes Research Institute, About Us, https://diabetesresearch.org/about-dri/ (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
50
JDRF International Incorporated, Articles of Incorporation,
https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/SearchResultDetail?inquirytype=EntityName&directionType=Initial&s
earchNameOrder=JUVENILEDIABETESRESEARCHFOUNDA%20833 1742&aggregateId=fornp-833174-b7f1f564-4580-
4f2e-ab1a- STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 8
DATE: 2/15/2024
foundation information and events held in the area.
51
JDRF International Incorporated is dedicated to
raising funds to support and promote Type 1 diabetes research.
52
The University of Florida (UF) Foundation, Inc.
The UF Foundation, Inc. is a Florida not for profit registered with the DOS.
53
The UF Foundation, Inc.
supports the UF Diabetes Institute that was founded in 2015 and serves as the umbrella organization
for diabetes research, treatment, and education coordinated at UF and UF Health. Researchers and
physicians affiliated with the Diabetes Institute are working to prevent, diagnose and treat diabetes in a
wide array of areas, including immunology, genetics, endocrinology, metabolism, pediatrics, and social
sciences.
54
Effect of the Bill
The bill creates the Cure Diabetes license plate, with an annual use fee of $25
55
. The plate must bear
DHSMV-approved colors and designs, with “Florida” appearing at the top of the plate and “Cure
Diabetes” appearing at the bottom of the plate.
The annual use fees from the sale of the plate must be distributed equally to the following
organizations:
The Diabetes Research Foundation, which supports the Diabetes Research Institute at the
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine;
The JDRF International Incorporated, which supports the JDRF Northern Florida Chapter; and
The University of Florida Foundation, Inc., which supports the University of Florida Diabetes
Institute.
Each organization may use up to 10 percent of the proceeds received by the organization to promote
and market the plate. All remaining proceeds must be used for the purpose of funding research to cure
type 1 diabetes.
Recycle Florida License Plate
Current Situation
Recycle Florida Today Foundation is a Florida not-for-profit corporation registered with the DOS.
56
The
organization’s statement of purpose is “to serve and support the professional development and related
educational objectives of source reduction and waste prevention, reuse, recycling, composting and
sustainability professionals through education, grants, research, and certifications.”
57
The organization
was founded in 1990, and consists of a network of approximately 200 members from governments,
4d6392cbf27e&searchTerm=The%20Juvenile%20Diabetes%20Research%20Foundation&listNameOrder=JUVENILEDIA
BETESRESEARCHFOUNDA%207298460 (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
51
JDRF, Northern Florida Chapter, https://www.jdrf.org/northernflorida/ (last visited Feb. 8, 2024). See also JDRF,
Southern Florida Chapter, https://www.jdrf.org/southernflorida/ (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
52
JDRF, About JDRF,https://www.jdrf.org/about/?_ga=2.216079830.1597347397.1666008274-1688791745.1661161232
(last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
53
University of Florida Foundation, Inc., Articles of
Incorporation,https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/SearchResultDetail?inquirytype=EntityName&directionT
ype=Initial&searchNameOrder=UNIVERSITYFLORIDAFOUNDATION%207066761&aggregateId=domnp -706676-
0326352e-c135-4f57-9430-
b6f7499776e3&searchTerm=The%20University%20of%20Florida%20Foundation%2C%20Inc&listNam eOrder=UNIVERSI
TYFLORIDAFOUNDATION%207066760 (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
54
University of Florida Diabetes Institute, About the UF Diabetes Institute, https://diabetes.ufl.edu/about-us/ (last visited
Feb. 8, 2024).
55
S. 320.08056(3)(d), F.S.
56
Florida DOS, Division of Corporations,
https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/SearchResultDetail?inquirytype=EntityName&directionType=Initial&s
earchNameOrder=RECYCLEFLORIDATODAY%20N415170&aggregateId=domnp -n41517-79e1bdd2-b6c8-4a69-8d51-
ae28e316089b&searchTerm= Recycle%20florida% 20today%2C%20Inc&listNameOrder=RECYCLEFLORIDATODAY%20
N415170 (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
57
Id. STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 9
DATE: 2/15/2024
businesses, institutions and organizations focused on sustainable source and waste prevention, and
legislative advocacy for those engaged in the business of recycling.
58
Effect of the Bill
The bill authorizes the Recycle Florida specialty license plate with an annual use fee of $25. The plate
must bear DHSMV-approved colors and designs, with “Florida” appearing at the top of the plate and
“Recycle Florida” appearing at the bottom of the plate. The annual use fees from the sale of the plate
must be distributed to the Recycle Florida Today Foundation, Inc.
Recycle Florida Today Foundation, Inc. may use up to 10 percent of such fees for administrative costs
and marketing of the plate. The balance of the annual use fees must be used to:
Increase public awareness about the importance of recycling, resource conservation, and
environmental stewardship;
Promote robust, comprehensive, and sustainable recycling programs; and
Support the professional development of persons employed in fields relating to, recycling,
conservation, and sustainability.
Boating Capital of the World License Plate
Current Situation
Captain Sandy Yawn, Inc., also known as Captain Sandy’s Charities, is a Florida not-for-profit
registered with the DOS.
59
The organization focuses on promoting awareness and funding of maritime
employment opportunities, environmental education, behavioral health assistance, and developmental
disability services.
60
The organization was founded in 2019 by Captain Sandy Yawn, a renowned
superyacht captain with over 30 years of international maritime experience.
61
Effect of the Bill
The bill authorizes the Boating Capital of the World specialty license plate with an annual use fee of
$25. The plate must bear DHSMV-approved colors and designs, with “Florida” appearing at the top of
the plate and “Boating Capital of the World” appearing at the bottom of the plate. The annual use fees
from the sale of the plate must be distributed to Captain Sandy Yawn, Inc.
Captain Sandy Yawn, Inc. may use up to 10 percent of such fees for administrative costs and
marketing of the plate. The balance of the annual use fees must be used to:
Increase public awareness of employment opportunities in the maritime industry;
Fund maritime workforce instruction and training;
Promote professional development and job placement in all sectors of maritime employment;
and
Support the advancement of education of trainees in the maritime industry, both at sea and on
land.
Project Addiction: Reversing the Stigma License Plate
Current Situation
Project Addiction: Reversing the Stigma, Inc., is a Florida not-for-profit corporation registered with the
58
Recycle Florida Today, Our History, https://recyclefloridatoday.org/our-
history/#:~:text=Founded%20in%201990%2C%20four%20women,formed%20Recycle%20Florida%20Today%2C%20Inc.
(last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
59
Florida DOS, Division of Corporations, Articles of Incorporation,
https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/ConvertTiffToPDF?storagePath=COR%5C2019%5C0626%5C00195
476.Tif&documentNumber=N19000006425 (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
60
Captain Sandy Yawn, Donate to Captain Sandy’s Charities, https://captainsandyyawn.com/charities/ (last visited Feb. 8,
2024).
61
Captain Sandy Yawn, About Captain Sandy Yawn, https://captainsandyyawn.com/about/ (last visited Feb. 8, 2024). STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 10
DATE: 2/15/2024
DOS.
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According to the organization’s website, Project Addiction: Reversing the Stigma, Inc. spreads
awareness of the Opioid Overdose Epidemic
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and finds proactive ways to honor family members lost
to substance use disorder (SUD) and mental illness. The mission of Project Addiction: Reversing the
Stigma, Inc. is to empower the lives of those with SUD and mental illness through education,
awareness, and support.
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Effect of the Bill
The bill creates the Project Addiction: Reversing the Stigma License plate, with an annual use fee of
$25
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. The plate must bear DHSMV-approved colors and designs, with “Florida” appearing at the top of
the plate and “Overdose Awareness” appearing at the bottom of the plate.
The annual use fees from the sale of the plate must be distributed to Project Addiction: Reversing the
Stigma, Inc. Up to 10 percent of such fees may be used for the promotion and marketing costs of the
license plate. The remaining funds must be distributed with the approval of and accountability to the
board of directors of Project Addiction: Reversing the Stigma, Inc., and must be used to promote and
support awareness of and education about substance use disorder and mental illness.
United Service Organizations (USO) License Plate
Current Situation
United Service Organizations, Inc. is a foreign, non-profit organization registered with the DOS.
66
United Service Organizations, Inc. has ten locations in Florida
67
and serves men and women in the
United States military, and their families through its programs and services. Such programs include, but
are not limited to USO Reading Program
68
and USO Coffee Connections.
69
The overall focus of its
programs is to keep service members connected to the people, places, and things they love.
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Effect of the Bill
The bill creates the United Service Organizations (USO) license plate, with an annual use fee of $25
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.
The plate must bear DHSMV-approved colors and designs, with “Florida” appearing at the top of the
plate and the acronym “USO” appearing at the bottom of the plate.
The annual use fees from the sale of the plate must be distributed to United Service Organizations,
Inc., which may use up to 10 percent of the fees for administrative costs and marketing of the plate.
The United Service Organizations, Inc., must distribute the remainder of the fees equally among its ten
locations in Florida to be used to promote its mission of supporting members of the United States
Armed Forces and their families through its various programs, services, and events.
Production of Specialty License Plates
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Project Addiction: Reversing the Stigma, Inc., Articles of Incorporation,
https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/ConvertTiffToPDF?storagePath=COR%5C2021%5C1006%5C70462
037.tif&documentNumber=N21000011775(last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
63
From 1999-2021, nearly 645,000 people in the United States died from an overdose involving any opioid, including
prescription and illicit opioids. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Understanding the Opioid Overdose Epidemic,
https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/basics/epidemic.html (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
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Project Addiction: Reversing the Stigma, About Us, https://reversingthestigma.com/ (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
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S. 320.08056(3)(d), F.S.
66
USO, Inc., Authorization to Conduct Affairs in Florida,
https://search.sunbiz.org/Inquiry/CorporationSearch/ConvertTiffToPDF?storagePath=COR%5C2006%5C1130%5C50247
405.Tif&documentNumber=F06000007371 (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
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USO Florida, Volunteer, https://florida.uso.org/support/volunteer (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
68
The USO helps service members read to their children from around the world. USO, USO Reading Program,
https://www.uso.org/programs/uso-reading-program (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
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The USO has supported military spouses for many years and in 2016, launched a worldwide initiative focusing on
programs to strengthen and empower military spouses by connecting them to others in their communities, simply over a
cup of coffee. USO, USO Coffee Connections, https://www.uso.org/programs/uso-coffee-connections (last visited Feb. 8,
2024).
70
USO, Programs, https://www.uso.org/programs (last visited Feb. 8, 2024).
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S. 320.08056(3)(d), F.S. STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 11
DATE: 2/15/2024
The new specialty license plates will be added to DHSMV’s presale voucher process, but the plates will
only be placed into production once each plate meets the 3,000 minimum sales threshold
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and if the
135 plate cap is not reached.
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Effective Date
The bill has an effective date of October 1, 2024.
B. SECTION DIRECTORY:
Section 1 Amends s. 320.08056, F.S., relating to specialty license plates.
Section 2 Amends s. 320.08058, F.S., relating to specialty license plates.
Section 3 Provides an effective date of October 1, 2024.
II. FISCAL ANALYSIS & ECONOMIC IMPACT STATEMENT
A. FISCAL IMPACT ON STATE GOVERNMENT:
1. Revenues:
None.
2. Expenditures:
DSHMV will need to update its procedures, forms, and website to incorporate the new license
plates and the changes to the collegiate, American Eagle, and Give Kids The World license plates.
Additionally, programming will be required for DHSMV to accept presale vouchers for the new
specialty license plates. According to DHSMV, a specialty license plate with one distribution will
require approximately 216 hours of programming. This programming can be done using existing
resources.
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B. FISCAL IMPACT ON LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
1. Revenues:
None.
2. Expenditures:
None.
C. DIRECT ECONOMIC IMPACT ON PRIVATE SECTOR:
Once a specialty license plate goes into production, organizations authorized for a distribution from the
proceeds of the sale of the respective license plate will benefit.
Therefore, the following organizations may see an increase in revenues:
Various in-state colleges and universities
The American Eagle Foundation
Give Kids The World, Inc.
SFC Charitable Foundation, Inc.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Inc.
Aerospace Center for Excellence
72
S. 320.08053(2)(b), F.S.
73
S. 320.08053(3)(b), F.S.
74
Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Agency Analysis of 2024 House Bill 403, pp. 5-6. (Nov. 13, 2023). STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 12
DATE: 2/15/2024
The Villages Charter School, Inc.
The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation, Inc.
JDRF International Incorporated
The UF Foundation, Inc.
Recycle Florida Today Foundation, Inc.
Captain Sandy Yawn, Inc.
Project Addiction: Reversing the Stigma, Inc.
United Service Organizations, Inc.
D. FISCAL COMMENTS:
None.
III. COMMENTS
A. CONSTITUTIONAL ISSUES:
1. Applicability of Municipality/County Mandates Provision:
Not applicable. This bill does not appear to impact county or municipal governments.
2. Other:
None.
B. RULE-MAKING AUTHORITY:
The bill does not require or authorize rulemaking.
C. DRAFTING ISSUES OR OTHER COMMENTS:
None.
IV. AMENDMENTS/COMMITTEE SUBSTITUTE CHANGES
On January 25, 2024, the Transportation & Modals Subcommittee considered one amendment, which was
adopted, and reported the bill favorably as a committee substitute. The amendment:
Removes authority to place the word “Margaritaville” on the side of the plate; rather, it must be at
the bottom of the plate.
Amends provisions relating to distribution and use of fees collected, including lowering the
maximum administrative and marketing costs from 18% to 10% and removing obsolete language.
On February 15, 2024, the Infrastructure Strategies Committee adopted a Proposed Committee
Substitute (PCS) and reported the bill favorably as a committee substitute. The PCS:
Exempts Florida collegiate license plates from the presale voucher requirement and the annual
discontinuation process for specialty license plates;
Allows discontinued collegiate license plates to be reauthorized by DHSMV;
Replaces the phrase “In God We Trust” with “Protect the Eagle” on the bottom of the American
Eagle License Plate design; and
Renames the Give Kids The World License Plate to establish the Universal Orlando Resort License
Plate.
In addition to the Margaritaville license plate, which was already in the bill, the PCS creates the following
new specialty license plates with an annual use fee of $25:
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
General Aviation
The Villages: May All Your Dreams Come True
Cure Diabetes
Recycle Florida STORAGE NAME: h0403b.ISC PAGE: 13
DATE: 2/15/2024
Boating Capital of the World
Project Addiction: Reversing the Stigma
United Service Organizations (USO)
This analysis is drafted to the committee substitute as approved by the Infrastructure Strategies
Committee.