Veteran plates would require private funding and 500 paid applications

New Jersey’s motor vehicle agency would issue plates marked “Veteran” to eligible applicants. The plates would be for vehicles that eligible veterans own or lease and register in New Jersey. Applicants must meet New Jersey’s legal definition of a veteran, show a DD-214 or discharge certificate, and have been honorably discharged. Before the agency begins the program, a designated person or group must provide private startup money, and the veterans’ agency must deliver at least 500 completed applications with payment for the first order. The program would become operative on the first day of the seventh month after both startup conditions are met. It would expire if either condition remains unmet on the last day of the 12th month after enactment.

The motor vehicle agency would charge extra plate fees and set aside money left after agency costs to support veterans. The extra fees would apply to eligible veterans who apply for or keep these plates. The $50 application fee and later $10 yearly fee would be added to regular vehicle registration fees. The motor vehicle agency would recover its program costs before money goes to the fund for veteran recognition and benefits. At least 500 completed applications and payment for the first order must arrive before the program begins. The $10 fee would apply each year after the plates are issued.