Authorizes creation of Mental Health Awareness license plates.
Impact
The implementation of S585 is intended to raise awareness around mental health issues while concurrently generating funding for mental health programs in New Jersey. The legislation establishes a special non-lapsing fund known as the 'Mental Health Awareness License Plate Fund,' into which the fees collected from the sale of these plates will be deposited. This fund will be allocated to the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services for research and support of existing and new mental health initiatives. This approach ensures that the revenue generated directly supports mental health services without using state funds for initial costs.
Summary
Senate Bill S585 authorizes the creation and issuance of special license plates aimed at promoting Mental Health Awareness in New Jersey. These plates will feature the words 'Mental Health Awareness' along with the usual registration number. The Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission will be responsible for the design and issuance of these plates, collaborating with the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services from the Department of Human Services to establish a visually appealing design. An application for these plates would need to be submitted, including an additional fee on top of standard vehicle registration fees.
Contention
Concerns may arise regarding the financial viability of the Mental Health Awareness license plate program. The bill stipulates that no public funds can be used for the initial establishment costs of the plate program, and funding must come from private donations or fees incurred only after at least 500 applications are received. If the average cost of producing and issuing these plates exceeds the application fee after two consecutive years, the program could be discontinued. This necessitates careful monitoring and management to ensure the program's sustainability and effectiveness in promoting mental health awareness.