Hawaii House Bill HB1254

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/21
• Refer: 2/1/21

Caption

Relating To Disabled Veterans.

Impact

If passed, HB1254 would formally recognize the contributions of disabled veterans by providing them with distinct license plates that identify their service to the nation. The designations on the plates would include references such as 'DISABLED VETERAN' to distinguish the vehicles of those who have served and sacrificed. This change is perceived as a meaningful acknowledgment of their valor and would help foster public awareness about the challenges faced by disabled veterans in Hawaii.

Summary

House Bill 1254 proposes amendments to Section 249-9.2 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to establish special number plates for certain categories of disabled veterans. This bill specifically aims to provide a unique license plate for veterans who have a service-connected disability that has been rated at 100% by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The initiative highlights the state’s commitment to recognizing and honoring the sacrifices made by veterans with significant disabilities. It aims to facilitate a sense of community and pride among these individuals while also offering them visibility on the road.

Contention

There are potential areas of contention surrounding HB1254, including discussions about the resource allocation required to implement this new procedure for issuing licenses and the implications for administrative processes within the Department of Finance. Some stakeholders may raise concerns regarding whether the benefits of creating special number plates justify the costs and logistical efforts involved. However, proponents of the bill emphasize the importance of supporting disabled veterans and argue the recognition through special plates can have social and emotional benefits that outweigh the bureaucratic challenges.