This bill proposes the creation of a Legion of Merit special license plate for recipients of the Legion of Merit award in Minnesota. It includes the following provisions:

1. Eligibility:

   • Applicants must be recipients of the Legion of Merit award.
   • The vehicle must be personally registered to the applicant.
   • Eligible vehicles include passenger automobiles, one-ton pickup trucks, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles.
   • The applicant must pay the required vehicle registration tax and comply with all motor vehicle registration and driver licensing rules.

2. Application Process:

   • The special plates can only be requested at the time of vehicle registration renewal or initial registration.
   • The vehicle that receives the special plates must be for personal use only (not for commercial purposes).

3. Plate Design:

   • The Minnesota Commissioner of Transportation must design a suitable plate that features the phrase "LEGION OF MERIT."

4. Fees:

   • The special license plates will be issued free of charge to qualified applicants.
   • If the plates become damaged, they will be replaced at no cost.
   • No additional fee will be required for renewal in subsequent years.

5. Plate Transfer:

   • The special license plates can be transferred to another vehicle owned by the same person, provided the new vehicle qualifies under the eligibility requirements.
   • No transfer fee will be required.

6. Exemption:

   • The Legion of Merit special plates will not be subject to certain regulations in Minnesota Statutes section 168.1293, subdivision 2 (typically related to additional special plate fees).

This bill seeks to honor Legion of Merit recipients by granting them free, distinctive vehicle plates to recognize their distinguished military service.