The bill specifies an initial registration fee of fifteen dollars, with ten dollars directed to the highway tax distribution fund and five dollars to the veterans' cemetery maintenance fund. Additionally, veterans awarded the Purple Heart will be exempt from both the initial registration fee and the annual surcharge. The proposed structure ensures continued funding for the maintenance and operations of the veterans' cemetery, which is crucial for the proper care and respect of those interred.
Summary
SB2344 proposes amendments to section 39-04-10.10 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on the issuance of distinctive number plates for veterans eligible for interment in the state's veterans' cemetery. Under this bill, the state's director will issue these number plates upon payment of specific fees and verification of eligibility. This legislative effort aims to honor veterans by providing them with identifiable plates while ensuring that the funds collected are allocated towards maintaining the cemetery.
Conclusion
Overall, SB2344 represents a significant step in recognizing and supporting the veterans of North Dakota by enhancing the way they are honored through distinctive number plates. The bill aims to establish a sustainable funding mechanism to ensure the cemetery’s upkeep while promoting the visibility of veterans in the community.
Contention
While the bill seems straightforward, potential contention may arise regarding the effectiveness and practical implementation of the funding system. Questions may be raised about the adequacy of the fee structure in covering the long-term maintenance costs of the cemetery, considering fluctuations in funding and changes in the number of veterans eligible for interment. Additionally, the reliance on specific fee collections could lead to debates about how best to support veterans' needs and community outreach.
AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the office of the adjutant general; to provide an exemption; to provide a statement of legislative intent; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a transfer; and to declare an emergency.
A transfer of Bank of North Dakota profits to a water infrastructure revolving loan fund; to provide for a transfer; to provide an exemption; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide a report; to provide a penalty; to provide for application; to provide a retroactive effective date; to provide a contingent effective date; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.
The legacy investment for technology program, the North Dakota development fund, the workforce enhancement council, the administration of uncrewed aircraft system programs, workforce development grants to tribally controlled community colleges, and a North Dakota development fund grant program; to provide a transfer; to provide an exemption; to provide for a report; and to declare an emergency.