Establishes a special prestige license plate for the Academy of the Sacred Heart in New Orleans
Impact
The bill modifies existing regulations surrounding special prestige license plates by allowing parochial high schools to join public and private institutions in this initiative. Additionally, it maintains a provision for a $25 royalty fee that the Department of Public Safety and Corrections will collect for the use of the institution's design on the plates. This provision aims to fund related activities within these schools, enhancing their potential financial means.
Summary
House Bill 1247 aims to establish a special prestige license plate for the Academy of the Sacred Heart located in New Orleans. This legislation seeks to expand the eligibility for high schools to obtain their own unique license plates. Under current law, only public and private high schools were eligible; HB1247 extends this privilege to parochial high schools as well. The bill requires a minimum of one hundred applications for a new plate to be issued, supporting school pride and community engagement.
Sentiment
The sentiment among legislators regarding HB1247 appeared to be unanimously positive, given that it passed with a significant majority in a House vote (95 yeas to 0 nays). The legislation was viewed as a method to promote school spirit and identity through personalized license plates, which is generally well-received by the public and educational institutions alike.
Contention
There were minimal points of contention surrounding this bill. The focus was largely on promoting inclusivity among various types of high schools in Louisiana. However, the stipulation surrounding the minimum application requirement could potentially raise questions about accessibility for smaller or less-known schools seeking to participate in the prestige plate program, though no significant opposition was noted during the legislative process.