Authorizes creation of special license plates commemorating horse as State animal.
The establishment of these special license plates comes with a fee structure, where applicants must pay $50 at the time of application and an additional annual fee of $10 thereafter. These fees will contribute to the 'State Animal License Plate Fund', which is specifically set up to support programs aimed at improving the health and welfare of horses within the state, as well as providing equine-assisted therapeutic programs for individuals with special needs.
Senate Bill No. 2884, introduced in New Jersey, authorizes the creation of special license plates that commemorate the horse as the state animal. The bill outlines that upon proper application, the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission will issue these plates for any registered motor vehicle. The unique license plates will display the words 'State Animal' along with an emblem representing horses. The design and color scheme of these plates will be decided in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, ensuring a thematic representation of the state animal.
The sentiment surrounding SB 2884 is largely positive, particularly among animal welfare advocates and equestrian communities, who see this as a recognition of the horse's significance in New Jersey's cultural and agricultural heritage. Supporters believe that these plates will not only foster pride in the state animal but also help raise funds for beneficial programs. However, there may be concerns regarding the initial costs involved in producing and marketing these special plates, which are specified to be offset by non-public contributions rather than public funds.
A notable aspect of the bill is its stipulation that no state or public funds will be used for the initial expenses related to the design, production, and distribution of the license plates. Instead, private funds up to a maximum of $25,000 will need to be raised to cover these starter costs. Additionally, the bill includes a provision that it will remain inoperative until specified conditions involving fee collection and application submissions are met, which introduces a degree of complexity and a potential hurdle for immediate implementation.