WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1654

TO AUTHORIZE THE ISSUANCE OF A SPECIAL LICENSE PLATE FOR THE MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION OF THE MID SOUTH; AND TO ADDRESS THE INVENTORY OF THE MID-SOUTH COMMUNITY COLLEGE EDUCATION SPECIAL LICENSE PLATE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jessie McGruder and 2 co-sponsors

HB 1654 creates a special license plate for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, providing funds for children's wishes, while phasing out the Mid-South Community College plate.

Notification that HB1654 is now Act 490
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1654

Summary of HB 1654

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 1654
Title: To Authorize the Issuance of a Special License Plate for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid South; and to Address the Inventory of the Mid-South Community College Education Special License Plate.
Status: Now Act 490
Introduced: March 4, 2025
Sponsors: Representatives Tosh and McGruder; Senator Wallace

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 1654 is to establish a special license plate that supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid South. This initiative aims to promote the foundation's mission of granting wishes to children with critical illnesses. Additionally, the bill addresses the inventory management of the existing Mid-South Community College education special license plate.

Key Provisions

  • Creation of a Special License Plate:

    • The Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) will design and issue a special license plate for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid South.
    • The design will be created in consultation with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

  • Fees Associated with the License Plate:

    • Regular Registration Fee: Standard fee for vehicle registration.
    • Administrative Fee: $10.00, which will be deposited into the State Central Services Fund.
    • Design-Use Contribution Fee: $30.00, to be remitted monthly to the Make-A-Wish Foundation for its operational support.

  • Inventory Management for Existing Plates:

    • The bill repeals the Mid-South Community College education special license plate but allows for its issuance and renewal until the current inventory is exhausted.

Fiscal Impact

  • The estimated cost for the design and inventory setup of the new Make-A-Wish license plate is approximately $20,000.
  • The financial impact on the State Central Services Fund will depend on the number of special plates issued.

Affected Parties

  • Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid South: Will receive financial support through the design-use contribution.
  • Motor Vehicle Owners: Individuals interested in supporting the foundation can purchase the new special license plate.
  • Mid-South Community College: The existing education special license plate will be phased out as inventory is depleted.

Implementation Timeline

  • The implementation date for the new license plate is set for January 1, 2026.
  • Modifications to the Arkansas Integrated Revenue System (AIRS) will require an estimated project cost of $11,000.

Procedural Changes

  • Updates will be made to the Motor Vehicle manual and the DFA website.
  • Training sessions will be conducted for relevant state employees to ensure proper implementation and communication with the public.

Conclusion

HB 1654 represents a significant step in supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid South through the introduction of a special license plate. It also streamlines the inventory process for the Mid-South Community College education plate, ensuring that resources are effectively managed. The bill's passage as Act 490 reflects a commitment to community support and engagement.

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

Sign in to ask a question.