Purpose of the Bill

The bill seeks to support disabled veterans in Minnesota by providing financial relief related to watercraft fees. It specifically aims to exempt certain veterans from paying these fees, recognizing their service and disabilities.

Main Provisions

• Exemption from Watercraft Fees: The bill proposes that veterans who have a 100 percent service-connected disability will not be required to pay the watercraft license fee.
• No Fees for Registration or Transfers: These veterans will also be exempt from fees associated with registering a watercraft, transferring ownership, or obtaining a duplicate watercraft license.
• Waiver of Additional Charges: The bill includes provisions to waive any watercraft surcharges or registrar's fees for these veterans.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill introduces a new subdivision to an existing statute (section 86B.415 of the Minnesota Statutes 2024), creating a special category of fee exemptions specifically for veterans with a 100 percent service-connected disability, as verified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or relevant military branch retirement boards.

Relevant Terms

• Disabled veterans
• Watercraft fee exemption
• Service-connected disability
• Veterans Affairs
• Military retirement board
• Minnesota Statutes section 86B.415