Bill > HB1078

This bill establishes special "Gold Star" license plates for motor vehicles, honoring families who have lost a member serving in the United States armed forces. Specifically, it defines "Gold Star Mother" as the mother or stepmother of a service member killed on duty, "Gold Star Father" as the father or stepfather of such a service member, and "Gold Star Family" as other immediate family members who are not mothers or fathers. The Department of Safety will issue these plates, which will be distinguished by wording indicating "Gold Star Mother," "Gold Star Father," or "Gold Star Family," to eligible individuals upon payment of regular registration fees without any additional plate fees. Eligibility requires documentation such as a casualty report or official notification, proof of relationship to the deceased service member, and potentially marriage certificates or VA benefit letters. The bill also allows applicants to request specific character combinations for their plates, provided they meet state requirements and are not offensive. The director of the Department of Safety is authorized to create rules for the design, application process, and issuance of these plates.