New Jersey requires private backing and 500 orders for Revolutionary War plates

The Motor Vehicle Commission would issue anniversary plates to motorists who apply. The plates cover motor vehicles that people own or lease and register in New Jersey. The New Jersey Historic Trust or its designee must provide the required private startup money. A trust representative must deliver at least 500 completed applications with payment for the first order. The program remains inactive until the first day of the 13th month after both requirements are met. The act expires if they are unmet by the last day of the 12th month following enactment.

The commission would collect plate fees, and the state would use the remaining money to support and preserve heritage sites that attract visitors. Applicants would pay $50 for these plates on top of normal registration fees. Plate holders would pay another $10 each year after issuance. The commission is repaid for its program costs before the remaining fees go to the fund. The $10 fee begins in the year after the plates are issued. The state would set aside money from the fund for sites each year.

The Motor Vehicle Commission cannot use public money for initial program costs. The rule covers initial plate production, publicity, and needed computer changes. The New Jersey Historic Trust or its designee must contribute a set amount of private money, up to $25,000. The commission cannot start the covered work until it receives that money and at least 500 paid applications. The money and applications must arrive by the last day of the 12th month after enactment, or the act expires.