Special distinguishing registration plates expressing enthusiasm for hunting and fishing for sport and recreation

This bill establishes an authorized special group specifically enumerated in state law for persons interested in obtaining special plates expressing their enthusiasm for hunting and fishing for sport and recreation in this state. In addition to the regular vehicle registration fee, special group members are required to pay a $15 fee for issuance or reissuance of the special plates and a $15 annual fee that is deposited in the conservation fund to be used by the Department of Natural Resources for the management of the fish and wildlife resources of this state. The bill specifies the design of the special group plates, which must include a picture of a white-tailed deer and a nature scene in the background. However, DOT may issue the special group plates only if DOT receives, prior to June 30, 2013, contributions at least equal to the initial costs of production of the plates from interested persons to cover DOT's costs of implementation, and, if sufficient contributions are received, only after DOT has completed the development work necessary for implementation.

If DOT does not receive sufficient contributions by June 30, 2013, DOT must return all contributions, less a limited transaction fee for costs associated with the return of contributions. These contributions to DOT may not be applied to any fee established for the special group plates if DOT subsequently issues the plates.

Current law requires DOT to establish new designs for most vehicle registration plates, including most special plates, every ten years and to issue the new plates on a rolling basis as vehicle registrations are renewed by the vehicle owners. This bill exempts the special plates established under the bill from the ten-year redesign cycle.