WOUNDED VETERANS' LICENSE PLATES

House Bill 4193

Sponsor: Rep. Stephen Ehardt

Committee: Transportation

Complete to 2-21-01

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 4193 AS INTRODUCED 2-13-01

Under the Michigan Vehicle Code, any armed services veteran who is the recipient of the Purple Heart medal is eligible to apply to the secretary of state for a special license plate that is inscribed with the words "combat wounded veteran," and inscribed with the image of the original Purple Heart medal. Under House Bill 4193, the first plate issued to these veterans for any passenger vehicle licensed under the vehicle code would be free. The cost that would be waived is the annual motor vehicle registration tax. Depending on the kind of vehicle, these annual taxes range from $29 to about $200.

Specifically, the bill would amend the code to exempt veterans who have been awarded the Purple Heart medal from paying the tax for one special registration plate for certain motor vehicles whose registrations are taxed by the state. Included are plates used on the passenger motor vehicle, pick-up truck, motorcycle, van, motor home, hearse, bus, trailer coach, or trailer. Under House Bill 4193, the first plate would remain subject to the annual $30 service fee ($8 for the first month and $2 per month for each additional month of the registration period). Any additional special registration plates issued to the combat wounded veteran would be taxed at the amount specified in law, and the annual renewals of the plate would have to be accompanied by the $5 service fee specified in current law.

MCL 257.803e

Analyst: J. Hunault

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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.