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HB 2169

Remove variable rate on gas tax

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Ellington and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 2169 simplifies the process for military veterans to obtain specialized license plates by aligning definitions, expanding eligibility, and removing application deadlines.

To House Finance
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2169

Summary of House Bill No. 2169

Overview

Bill Number: HB 2169
Title: Remove Variable Rate on Gas Tax
Status: To House Finance
Introduced: January 29, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Finance and Administration, Taxation

House Bill No. 2169 aims to amend existing statutes regarding the issuance of specialized license plates for military veterans. The bill seeks to align the requirements for these plates with recent statutory changes and simplify the application process for veterans.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 2169 is to:
- Standardize the definitions and qualifications for military veteran license plates across various statutes.
- Remove bureaucratic hurdles that may impede veterans from obtaining these specialized license plates.

Key Provisions

  1. Alignment with 2024 Statutory Changes:

    • The bill modifies existing statutes to reflect updated definitions of "veteran" as established in 2024 legislation (HB 2760).
  2. Simplification of Application Process:

    • It eliminates the requirement for veterans to submit their license plate applications at least 60 days before their vehicle registration renewal date.
  3. Expanded Eligibility:

    • The bill allows issuance of specialized license plates to veterans who have received either an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions.
  4. Proof of Military Service:

    • It clarifies acceptable forms of proof for military service, including:
      • A Kansas driver’s license with a “VETERAN” designation.
      • A copy of the veteran’s DD Form 214, NGB Form 22, or equivalent discharge documents.
  5. Amendments to Specific Branch License Plates:

    • The bill updates the language in statutes governing license plates specific to military branches, ensuring consistency with the all-branch license plate requirements.

Affected Parties

  • Military Veterans: The bill primarily benefits U.S. military veterans from all branches, including the Merchant Marines, by simplifying the process to obtain specialized license plates.
  • Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR): The KDOR will need to update forms and procedures, incurring an estimated cost of $1,200.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced by the House Committee on Transportation and is currently under consideration by the House Finance Committee.
  • The provisions of the bill will take effect upon publication in the Kansas Register.

Fiscal Impact

According to the fiscal note prepared by the Division of the Budget, the enactment of HB 2169 is expected to increase expenditures by $1,200 for the KDOR to update various agency forms and procedures. This fiscal effect is not reflected in the FY 2026 Governor’s Budget Report.

Conclusion

House Bill No. 2169 represents a significant step towards simplifying the process for military veterans to obtain specialized license plates, ensuring that the definitions and qualifications are consistent and accessible. The bill aims to honor the service of veterans by reducing bureaucratic barriers and aligning with recent legislative changes.

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

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