Creates the Free and Accepted Mason prestige license plate (RE INCREASE SG EX See Note)
By establishing this prestige license plate, HB 1056 creates a new category of vehicle registration that ties into the cultural and philanthropic activities associated with the Masons. The bill stipulates an annual royalty fee of $25 collected from applicants, which will support the lodge's charitable endeavors. Furthermore, a standard registration license fee and a handling fee will also be collected, partially offsetting the administrative costs for the Department of Public Safety and Corrections.
House Bill 1056 introduces a special prestige license plate named the 'Free and Accepted Mason' for members of the Free and Accepted Mason Ionic Lodge Number 26 in Louisiana. This bill mandates the issuance of these plates, which are contingent upon receiving at least 1,000 applications. The plates will feature a design selected by the lodge and include their logo, aiming to promote the organization while providing members with a unique vehicle registration option. The bill also requires applicants to present proof of membership to obtain these plates.
The sentiment surrounding HB 1056 has been largely positive, particularly among members of the Free and Accepted Masons who view this legislation as a means to foster community recognition and philanthropic efforts. However, there might be voices of contention regarding the prioritization of resources toward such specialty plates over more pressing state vehicle registration needs, although specific opposition was not noted in the discussions up to the bill's voting history.
Notable points of contention include the practicality and necessity of producing specialty license plates that cater to specific organizations. Critics may argue that this could lead to a proliferation of similar requests from other groups, complicating the vehicle registration system. Nevertheless, the final voting results indicate that there was significant legislative support for the bill, suggesting that the perceived benefits outweighed the concerns.