Virginia House Bill HB40

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/30/21
• Refer: 12/30/21
• Report Pass: 1/27/22
• Engrossed: 2/1/22
• Refer: 2/3/22
• Report Pass: 2/17/22
• Enrolled: 2/24/22
• Chaptered: 3/11/22
• Passed: 3/11/22

Caption

Disabled veteran special license plate; transferral to surviving spouse.

Impact

The adjustments made by HB40 would codify policies that enable easier access to special motor vehicle registration plates for families of disabled veterans. By allowing the transfer of license plates, the bill acknowledges the sacrifices made by service members and their families, thereby providing lasting benefits that honor their service. The bill also implies that no annual registration fees would be incurred for these vehicles, promoting ease of access.

Summary

House Bill 40 seeks to amend Virginia's Code concerning special license plates for disabled veterans. Specifically, the bill allows for these special license plates, which are identified by the letters 'DV', to be transferred to the unremarried surviving spouse of a deceased disabled veteran. This provision aims to offer continued recognition and support to the families of those who have served in the military and suffered service-related disabilities.

Sentiment

The general sentiment regarding HB40 appears to be supportive. Many committee members and constituents recognize the importance of extending benefits to surviving spouses of disabled veterans. This initiative has been positively received as a way to honor the contributions of veterans even posthumously. It reflects a community's commitment to ensuring that the families of those who have served are not left without support following a service member's death.

Contention

While the discussions around HB40 have largely been positive, some points of contention may arise related to enforcement and the administrative aspects of the plate transfer process. Concerns include ensuring that the eligibility criteria for receiving such plates are clear and that the process does not impose undue burdens on surviving spouses. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the potential fiscal implications of waiving fees for these license plates in terms of lost revenue.