Authorizes creation of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. license plates.
Impact
The bill establishes the 'Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. License Plate Fund', where proceeds from the license plate fees will be deposited after deducting administrative costs. This fund is intended to support programs and initiatives associated with the fraternity's mission. The bill highlights the role of private funding, as it demands that no state funds will be allocated for the initial implementation costs, which must be covered by non-public contributions up to $25,000. Moreover, to move forward with the implementation, at least 500 applications for these plates must be submitted.
Summary
Bill S2365 authorizes the creation and issuance of special license plates for the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in New Jersey. This bill allows the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to issue these plates for vehicles registered in the state. The plates will feature words, a slogan, and an emblem dedicated to the fraternity, symbolizing its historical significance and contributions to the African American community. To initiate the program, a fee of $50 is required upon application, which is separate from standard vehicle registration fees, along with a recurring annual fee of $10.
Contention
While the bill promotes the visibility of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, it may face scrutiny regarding the reliance on private funding to offset the costs of designing, producing, and issuing the plates. The requirement for a minimum number of applications is also notable as it imposes a threshold for the license plate program to proceed, potentially limiting its success. Additionally, if the average cost of maintaining the license plate program exceeds the specified amounts, the Chief Administrator has the authority to discontinue the program. This raises questions about fiscal sustainability and the long-term viability of specialty plate initiatives.