SF1776

This bill, Minnesota Senate File No. 1776, proposes an amendment to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 168.123, which governs the issuance of special license plates for veterans. The bill introduces a new special license plate for veterans who have received the Army of Occupation Medal.

Key Provisions:

1. New Special Plate for Army of Occupation Medal Recipients

   • Veterans who have received the Army of Occupation Medal will be eligible for a special license plate.
   • The plate will feature a facsimile of the medal and bear the inscription "ARMY OF OCCUPATION" below the plate number.

2. Existing Special Plates for Other Veterans

   • The statute already provides special plates for veterans who have served in various conflicts or received specific military honors, such as Purple Heart recipients, Vietnam War veterans, and Afghanistan War veterans.

3. Eligibility Criteria for All Veterans' Special Plates

   • The veteran must have served in the active military in a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces or allied forces.
   • The veteran must have been honorably discharged.
   • The applicant must be the registered owner of a passenger vehicle, recreational motor vehicle, or light truck that is not a commercial vehicle.

4. Transferability

   • Special plates can be transferred to another qualified vehicle owned by the same individual for a $5 fee.

5. Administrative Authority

   • The Minnesota Commissioner of Veterans Affairs and Commissioner of Public Safety are responsible for designing and issuing these plates.
   • The Commissioner of Public Safety may adopt rules to govern the issuance and use of the plates.

Purpose:

The bill primarily seeks to recognize and honor veterans who have received the Army of Occupation Medal by granting them a distinct license plate, similar to plates already available for veterans of other military campaigns and awards.

This amendment aligns with Minnesota's ongoing efforts to support and acknowledge military service members for their contributions.