GOLD STAR FAMILY LICENSE PLATE

House Bill 4088

Sponsor:  Rep. Bob Genetski

Committee:  Transportation

Complete to 4-22-11

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 4088 AS INTRODUCED 1-18-11

The bill would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to permit the spouse, parent, sibling, or child of a member of the Armed Services who died during combat to apply to the Secretary of State for a Gold Star Family special registration plate. The plate would have to be inscribed with special identification numbers preceded by a gold star and have the words "Gold Star Family" inscribed beneath the registration number.

Currently, the Vehicle Code permits a person who was a prisoner of war, World War I veteran, Pearl Harbor survivor, or purple heart medal recipient, among others, to apply to for a special registration plate.  The application is on a form prescribed by the Secretary of State and must be accompanied by a $5 service fee and proof that the applicant is eligible. A person issued a special registration plate would be assessed the applicable registration fee.

House Bill 4088 would extend those provisions to the spouse, parent, sibling, or child of a member of the Armed Services who died during combat. The application would have to be accompanied by any proof that the Secretary of State required.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The Secretary of State does not expect their costs on the new "Gold Star Family" license plate to exceed the $5 service fee.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   E. Best

                                                                                                  Fiscal Analyst:   William E. Hamilton

                                                                                                  Fiscal Analyst:   Ben Gielczyk

This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.