Rhode Island House Bill H5048

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/15/25

Caption

Creates special motor vehicle registration plates for vehicles based on the not-for-profit entity Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub.

Impact

If enacted, H5048 will enhance the current vehicle registration laws by adding a specific provision for special registration plates designated for the Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub. This will contribute a positive financial impact for the organization through a $40 issuance surcharge as well as a $10 renewal surcharge for each subsequent registration. The funds collected will be divided, with $20 allocated to the general fund and the remaining amount supporting the Hub's initiatives, which will directly benefit veterans.

Summary

House Bill 5048 seeks to establish special motor vehicle registration plates associated with the Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub. This not-for-profit entity focuses on honoring veterans by providing no-cost trips to memorials in Washington, D.C., specifically targeting WWII and Korean War Veterans. The bill outlines the necessary procedures for the creation and issuance of these special plates, intending to promote awareness of this noble cause while generating funds to support it.

Contention

While the bill is designed to provide a streamlined method for vehicle registration linked to a charitable cause, there could be concerns about the administrative burden on the Division of Motor Vehicles regarding the establishment and maintenance of these special plates. Further, the requirement for the Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub to use sourced funds solely for the benefit of local organizations ensures that the funds contribute to the Rhode Island community. However, the bill does not address potential implications for other veteran-focused non-profits, which may feel excluded from similar benefits.