New Jersey Senate Bill S1160

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/22
• Refer: 1/31/22

Caption

Makes various changes to current system for approval, issuance, administration, and discontinuance of various types of special license plates.

Impact

One of the most significant shifts introduced by S1160 is the expanded authority granted to the chief administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). This includes the ability to revoke existing approvals for specialty registration plates if sales fall below 500 sets in a fiscal year or if maintaining the plate is deemed no longer cost-effective. As a result, license plates that fail to garner sufficient interest or fail to comply with state regulations can be discontinued more easily, potentially reducing the number of available specialty plates and influencing the revenue generated from these sources. The bill also enables the MVC to discontinue dedicated cause plates if certain financial thresholds are not met.

Summary

Senate Bill S1160 amends the existing regulations related to specialty registration plates in New Jersey. The bill aims to streamline the process of approval, issuance, and discontinuance of various types of license plates, primarily those issued to nonprofit organizations. With the introduction of more stringent requirements, the bill stipulates that sponsoring organizations must certify that they have at least 1,000 members in good standing and maintain active nonprofit status for five consecutive years before qualifying for specialty plates. Additionally, the bill allows organizations to solicit donations as a condition of receiving and maintaining these plates, fostering a connection between the plates and community support.

Contention

Debate surrounding S1160 centers on its implications for local nonprofits and cause-related initiatives. Critics argue that the threshold of 1,000 members may disproportionately disadvantage smaller organizations, making it more challenging for them to obtain specialized license plates that could promote their causes. Proponents contend that these standards will ensure that only viable, community-focused organizations receive the benefits associated with specialty registration plates. Additionally, the ability for the MVC to revoke plates adds a level of oversight that some believe is necessary to maintain the integrity of the program.