SB 449

Under current law, any group or organization may apply to the Department of

Transportation (DOT) for designation as an authorized special group. If the

application is approved, members of the authorized special group may obtain special

distinguishing license plates for certain vehicles, including automobiles and motor

homes, that are owned or leased by special group members. A fee, in addition to the

regular registration fee for the particular kind of vehicle, is charged for the issuance

or reissuance of most special plates.

Before October 2, 1998, authorized special groups whose members may obtain

special plates were specifically enumerated in state law. With certain exceptions,

current law provides that specific enumeration in state law of authorized special

groups is limited to those special groups enumerated before October 2, 1998.

This bill establishes an authorized special group specifically enumerated in

state law for persons interested in obtaining special plates that display the words

"Choose Life" and the proceeds from which support the purposes and bylaws of

Choose Life Wisconsin. 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 $25 annual fee that provides funds to Choose Life Wisconsin. However,

DOT may not issue these special plates until DOT has obtained authority to use,

without fee, any applicable trademark or service mark associated with these "Choose

Life" special plates.