AB 505

This bill allows persons who are interested in supporting Whitetails Unlimited

to obtain special motor vehicle registration plates.

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 expressing support for

Whitetails Unlimited. 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 to Whitetails

Unlimited. The bill requires the special plates to display a logo or symbol associated

with Whitetails Unlimited. DOT may not issue these special plates until DOT has

obtained authority to use any applicable trademark or service mark associated with

Whitetails Unlimited on these special plates and until DOT receives a contribution

from any interested person or group in the amount of the initial costs of production

of these special plates or $23,700, whichever is less.