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HB 583

GOVERNMENT-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

HB 583 increases free vehicle license plates for Georgia's totally disabled veterans to two, easing their financial burden and honoring their service.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 583

Summary of House Bill 583

Bill Number: HB 583
Title: Motor vehicles; increase number of free license plates issued to certain veterans
Status: Senate Read and Referred
Introduced: February 21, 2025

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 583 aims to amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to increase the number of free motor vehicle license plates available to veterans, specifically targeting those who are totally disabled or disabled. The bill seeks to honor the service of veterans by easing their financial burden related to vehicle registration.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following changes to the existing law regarding license plates for veterans:

  1. Issuance of License Plates:

    • Totally Disabled Veterans:
      • Eligible veterans will receive two free license plates for motorcycles or passenger cars registered in their name.
      • Proof of total disability must be provided through documentation from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
    • Disabled Veterans:
      • Veterans who are disabled but not classified as totally disabled can also apply for free license plates, although they must provide annual proof of their status.

  2. Eligibility Criteria:

    • The term "disabled veteran" is defined in accordance with existing state law, ensuring clarity on who qualifies for these benefits.
    • The bill allows for the issuance of license plates for vehicles owned jointly with a spouse or minor child.

  3. Survivor Benefits:

    • In the event of a veteran's death, their unremarried surviving spouse or minor child may continue to receive the free license plates until remarriage or death.

  4. Conforming Changes:

    • The bill includes provisions for conforming changes to ensure consistency with other related laws.

  5. Effective Date:

    • The bill will take effect upon passage, with provisions to repeal any conflicting laws.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The primary beneficiaries of this bill are veterans residing in Georgia who are classified as totally disabled or disabled. This includes those who have served in the armed forces and have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.

  • Financial Relief:

    • The bill provides financial relief by eliminating the registration fees for up to two vehicles, which can significantly reduce the annual costs associated with vehicle ownership for disabled veterans.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 21, 2025: Bill introduced and entered the House Hopper.
  • February 24, 2025: First reading in the House.
  • February 26, 2025: Second reading in the House.
  • February 28, 2025: Favorably reported by the House Committee.
  • March 6, 2025: Passed/Adopted by the House with a substitute version.
  • March 10, 2025: Read and referred to the Senate.

This summary provides an overview of HB 583, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on Georgia's veterans. The bill reflects a commitment to supporting those who have served in the military by easing their financial responsibilities related to vehicle registration.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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