Governor Murphy Signs Legislation Allowing Certain Veterans to Keep Special Military License Plates Upon Conclusion of Service
TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today signed a bill (A-4298) into law to allow veterans who have completed at least six years of service with a military reserve unit to keep special license plates identifying them as a member of the military following the conclusion of their service.
“Veterans who dedicated years of their lives to serving our country deserve our respect and appreciation,” said Governor Murphy. “Allowing veterans to keep the license plates that identify their military service upon the conclusion of their time in a military reserve unit is one way our state can honor that service.”
“The Motor Vehicle Commission is proud to play a part in recognizing military service in New Jersey with special license plates,” said Motor Vehicles Commission Acting Chief Administrator Latrecia Littles-Floyd. “This legislation signals to veterans that the time they’ve served is valued and cherished. Importantly, it helps underscore that their extraordinary contributions to our country are enduring — extending far beyond their time in uniform.”
“As we seek to support Service Members who have concluded their military service, this change allows us to honor their time in uniform,” said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., The Adjutant General of New Jersey and Commissioner of Veterans Affairs. “This is yet one more step toward demonstrating that New Jersey is committed to doing just that.”
New Jersey residents who are active members of a military reserve unit are allowed to request the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) issue them license plates identifying them as a member, but must surrender the plates to the MVC upon the conclusion of their service. Today’s legislation will allow former members with at least six years of service to retain their special license plates as long as they were discharged honorably or with a general discharge under honorable conditions.
Sponsors of the bill include Senator Patrick Diegnan and Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, as well as Senator Edward Durr and Assemblymen Sterley Stanley and Herb Conaway.
“Military reserve units remain ready to put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms at a moment’s notice,” said Senator Diegnan. “Currently, members are required to surrender special license plates issued to them at the end of their service. I am honored to have sponsored this law to rectify this and commemorate their invaluable service.”
“Former military reserve members shouldn’t have to surrender special license plates after spending upwards of six years in the reserves,” said Assemblyman Karabinchak. “These license plates are a badge of honor, representing their service and dedication to our country. Allowing former military reserve members to keep their plates as a tribute to their service is the right thing to do.”