Georgia House Bill HB804

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/23
• Report Pass: 1/24/24
• Engrossed: 1/26/24
• Refer: 1/29/24
• Report Pass: 3/13/24

Caption

Motor vehicles; issuance of a distinctive license plate for owners of ambulances; provide

Impact

If enacted, HB 804 will amend Code Section 40-2-151 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, directly affecting the regulation of vehicle licensing fees. The inclusion of specific license plates for ambulances and hearses could have implications for service recognition, potentially improving visibility and respect for these vehicles as they perform critical functions in emergency services and funerary services. The proposed measure also sets an effective date of January 1, 2025, indicating a structured timeline for implementation.

Summary

House Bill 804 establishes provisions for the issuance of distinctive license plates specifically for owners of ambulances and hearses in the state of Georgia. This legislative move aims to recognize the unique nature of these vehicles in the context of public service, which differentiates them from standard motor vehicles in terms of their operational use. The bill proposes a nominal fee of $20 for the issuance of these plates, thereby ensuring that the registration process remains accessible while promoting awareness of these essential public services.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 804 is generally positive, with broad support indicated during legislative discussions. The measure has been received as a low-cost enhancement to vehicle registration that honors the distinctive roles of ambulances and hearses. As there is no opposition recorded in the voting history, the legislative sentiment reflects a community appreciation for the services provided by these vehicles, with unanimous support in the House vote.

Contention

Despite the clarity and simplicity of HB 804, no major points of contention have been reported. Given the unanimously favorable vote of 157-0, it suggests that there are no significant disagreements regarding the bill's objectives or provisions among lawmakers. The lack of opposition implies consensus on the importance of acknowledging the operational roles of ambulances and hearses within the state's infrastructure.