Authorizes creation of "Woman Veteran" license plates with emblem displaying silhouette of woman veteran saluting set against American flag background.
The bill stipulates that the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission will be responsible for the issuance of these specialty plates. Notably, it creates a non-lapsing fund designated the "Woman Veteran License Plate Fund," with fees collected from plate registrations being deposited into this fund. The money will be allocated annually to various groups and organizations that assist and support women veterans. This measure not only provides a means of recognition for woman veterans but also financial support to relevant organizations, potentially enhancing the services available to this demographic.
Bill S3907 proposes the creation of special "Woman Veteran" license plates in New Jersey. The plates will feature a design displaying a silhouette of a woman veteran saluting against an American flag background, accompanied by the words "Woman Veteran." This initiative aims to honor female veterans and provide them with a unique form of identification on their vehicles. Applications for the plates require proof of veteran status, such as a DD-214 form, and involve an initial application fee of $50, alongside an annual renewal fee of $10. The revenues generated will contribute to a dedicated fund supporting organizations that advocate for women veterans.
While there is a strong intention behind this bill to honor women who have served in the military, there may be concerns regarding funding and community engagement. The bill mandates that no public funds shall be used to cover the initial costs of implementation; instead, funds must be raised from private sources or contributions of up to $25,000 by the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs. This requirement ensures that the program relies on community support for its establishment, which could become a point of contention if adequate applications or funding are not received in the defined timeframe. Additionally, if the average cost of producing the plates exceeds $50 for two consecutive years, the chief administrator has the authority to discontinue the program, indicating that its sustainability hinges on both demand and financial viability.