AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 21 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Rich Collins and 9 co-sponsors

HB 455 aims to modify Delaware's special license plate system, including design, eligibility, and fees, impacting DMV processes and plate holders.

Passed By Senate. Votes: 21 YES

Summary of HB 455 (Session 153, Delaware)

Purpose and intent

HB 455 proposes amendments to Title 21 of the Delaware Code, concerning special license plates. The bill is aimed at altering provisions related to the issuance, display, eligibility, or design of special license plates within the state’s motor vehicle regulatory framework.

The bill is introduced in the House and assigned to the Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee, indicating a focus on safety, law enforcement, or related public-interest considerations tied to vehicle licensing and plate programs.

Key provisions and changes (highlights)

While the precise text of HB 455 is not provided here, the bill’s title and category suggest it could address one or more of the following common elements seen in similar bills:

Creation or modification of specialty plate categories (e.g., design changes, themes, or additional plate options).
Eligibility criteria adjustments for individuals or organizations seeking specialty plates.
Fees assessment or adjustment for special plates and how those funds are collected or allocated.
Administrative processes for application, renewal, replacement, or enforcement related to special plates.
Compliance, branding, or security features to deter fraud or misuse.

The bill’s progression to the Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee implies considerations related to public safety, stewardship of state resources, or homeland security concerns tied to vehicle registration and plate issuance.

Who/what would be affected

Vehicle owners and registrants who request or display special license plates.

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and its administrative processes for issuing and managing specialty plates.

Organizations, groups, or causes eligible for specialty plates (if the bill adds or modifies plate categories).

Law enforcement and highway safety agencies that rely on plate design, verification, or related data for identification and enforcement.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Action history shows the bill was introduced on 2026-06-09 and assigned to the Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee in the House.

As a committee-assigned bill, it would undergo hearings, potential amendments, and committee votes before moving to the House floor for full consideration.

If advanced, the bill would also progress through the Senate (if applicable in the Delaware process) and may face additional hearings, votes, and potential gubernatorial action.

Practical impact and considerations

Fiscal: Any changes in specialty plate fees, funding allocations, or administrative costs would affect DMV revenue and discretionary spending via designated funds.

Safety and enforcement: Updates to plate design or verification procedures could enhance deterrence of plate fraud and improve identification accuracy.

Accessibility: Changes in eligibility or application processes could affect how easily individuals, nonprofits, or groups obtain or renew plates.

Public communication: Significant design or category changes would require outreach to plate holders and potential applicants to inform them of new options or requirements.

If you have access to the bill’s full text or fiscal notes, I can provide a more precise, line-by-line breakdown of the specific provisions, their legal consequences, and any timelines or sunset provisions.