GOLD STAR FAMILY LICENSE PLATE
Senate Bill 102
Sponsor: Sen. John Pappageorge (Enacted as Public Act 46 of 2011)
House Committee: Transportation
Senate Committee: Transportation
Complete to 5-20-11
A SUMMARY OF SENATE BILL 102 AS REPORTED FROM HOUSE COMMITTEE
The bill would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to permit immediate family members of individuals who die while serving in the Armed Services to apply to the Secretary of State for a "Gold Star Family" special vehicle registration plate. A Gold Star Family member could make application to the Secretary of State for a special registration plate that would have the words "Gold Star Family" inscribed beneath the registration number.
Senate Bill 102 contains identical provisions as House Bill 4088 which has already passed the House.
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 the Secretary of State for a special registration plate. Under the bill, an application would be on a form prescribed by the Secretary of State, accompanied by a $5 service fee, and proof of the applicant having been a Gold Star Family member as required by the Secretary of State. A person issued a special registration plate would be assessed the applicable registration fee.
The bill would define "Gold Star Family Member" to mean a person who has had an immediate family member die while serving in the United States Armed Forces or in forces incorporated as part of the United State Armed Forces if the immediate family member meets the eligible criteria specified in federal law for a Gold Star Lapel button.
The has an effective date of July 1, 2011.
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.
POSITIONS:
The following provided positions for House Bill 4088, a nearly identical bill.
Department of Military, Veterans Affairs, and Homeland Security supports the bill. (4-27-11)
Representatives from the Department of State testified in support of the bill. (4-27-11)
Michigan State Police supports the bill. (4-27-11)
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) supports the bill. (4-27-11)
Military Order of the Purple Heart, American Legion, Marine Corp League and Commanders Group support the bill. (4-27-11)
Patriot Guard Riders of Michigan support the bill. (4-27-11)
Several individuals who are Gold Star mothers, Gold Star fathers, and Gold Star family members testified in support of the bill. (4-27-11)
Fiscal Analyst: William E. Hamilton
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.