Authorizes special license plates for members of the United States Coast Guard.
If enacted, the bill will amend the state laws regarding vehicle registration, creating a new category of registration plates dedicated to members of the Coast Guard. The Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission will be tasked with managing the issuance of these plates, including setting the fee at $25, which is in addition to existing registration fees. It is also designed to ensure that the program is self-sustaining, allowing the commission to retain fees to cover any associated costs.
Senate Bill S2130 proposes the issuance of special motor vehicle registration plates for active members and honorably discharged former members of the United States Coast Guard. The special plates are also available to the spouses and parents of these individuals. These plates serve to honor service members by identifying the holder as a member of the Coast Guard and featuring the United States Coast Guard Seal. This bill aims to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Coast Guard members through a distinctive vehicle registration plate program.
Some points of contention may arise regarding the cost and management of the special plates. The bill allows the Chief Administrator to increase the fee for the plates if the average cost exceeds the fee for two consecutive fiscal years. This provision might raise concerns about long-term accessibility for service members and their families. Additionally, there may be discussions on how this new program could impact existing vehicle registration processes and if it serves as a precedent for other military branches.
The bill stipulates that it will take effect on the first day of the seventh month following enactment, but allows for anticipatory actions by the Chief Administrator to facilitate implementation sooner if needed. The proposed legislation emphasizes honoring Coast Guard members while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards for motor vehicle registration.