Alabama House Bill HB374

Alabama 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/21/24
• Report Pass: 4/3/24
• Refer: 3/21/24
• Refer: 4/16/24
• Report Pass: 4/24/24

Caption

Additional fee, professional firefighter distinctive motor vehicle license plate

Impact

The bill's increase in fees is likely to affect local revenue streams allocated for firefighter support initiatives. The funds collected are designated for specific purposes, including contributions to the Alabama Joint Fire Council and the Alabama Firefighters Annuity and Benefit Fund. However, it is noted that the requirements to implement this new fee are excluded from certain legislative requirements as it defines new crimes related to misuse of the license plates. The bill is anticipated to bolster resources available for firefighter support and memorial initiatives.

Summary

House Bill 374 seeks to amend Sections 32-6-271 and 32-6-280 of the Code of Alabama 1975, which govern the registration and fees associated with distinctive motor vehicle license plates for volunteer and professional firefighters. The bill proposes an increase in fees for these plates, with the annual additional fee rising from one dollar to ten dollars for professional firefighters starting January 1, 2025. The purpose of these fees is to fund various firefighter programs and initiatives such as the Alabama Firefighter Memorial and the Firefighter Peer Support Program.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding HB 374 could be the fiscal impact on local governments and their budgets, given that increased fees may deter some volunteer firefighters from obtaining these plates. While supporters argue that the additional funds are necessary to enhance support for firefighters and memorialize their service, critics may raise concerns about the financial burden on individual firefighters. Additionally, the bill's approach to defining new crimes related to misuse of the plates suggests a need for strict enforcement mechanisms, which may provoke further debate about legitimacy and practicality.