SB 305

Under current law, a group or organization that meets certain criteria 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 registration plates for certain vehicles, including

automobiles and motor homes, that are owned or leased by special group members.

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. 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.

This bill establishes an authorized special group specifically enumerated in

state law for persons interested in obtaining special plates honoring this state's

support of the United States Olympic Committee. 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 to annually include payment of $25 that provides

funds in equal amounts to Pettit National Ice Center, Inc., the Central Cross Country

Ski Association, and the United States Olympic Committee. The bill requires the

special plates to display a logo or symbol associated with the United States Olympic

Committee. DOT may not specify a design for the plates unless the design is

approved by the United States Olympic Committee. DOT may not issue these special

plates until DOT has obtained authority to use any applicable trademark or service

mark associated with the United States Olympic Committee on these special plates

and until DOT receives contributions from interested persons in the amount of the

initial costs of production of these special plates or $11,800, whichever is less.