Texas House Bill HB3988

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/28/09
• Voted on by House: 5/6/09

Caption

Relating to the issuance of disabled veteran license plates to surviving disabled spouses and of certain military license plates to the surviving spouses of military servicemembers who die while on active duty.

Impact

This legislation grants surviving spouses the right to register a vehicle using the special plates associated with their deceased spouse's veteran status or military service. Specifically, it allows a surviving spouse of a veteran whose vehicle was registered at the time of death to continue this registration as long as they remain single, thus providing ongoing support to those who have lost their partners in military service.

Summary

House Bill 3988 focuses on the issuance of special license plates for disabled veterans' surviving spouses and the surviving spouses of military servicemembers who have died while on active duty. The bill proposes amendments to the Transportation Code to allow these spouses to continue registering vehicles under specific provisions, acknowledging their sacrifice and providing them with continued benefits as long as they remain unmarried.

Contention

While the bill aligns with existing legislation aimed at supporting military families, discussions may arise regarding its implementation and clarity in defining eligibility requirements. Ensuring that the application process for vehicle registration under these provisions is straightforward and accessible for surviving spouses may be crucial. Moreover, considering potential concerns about the regulations surrounding the $3 fee for the special plates, lawmakers will need to ensure that this provision is sustainable and does not place an undue burden on the applicants.