The bill, S.F. No. 1776, proposes an amendment to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 168.123, to establish a special license plate for veterans who have received the Army of Occupation Medal.

Key Provisions:

1. Eligibility Requirements:

   • Applicants must have served in active military service in a branch of the armed forces of the United States or an allied nation.
   • Must have been honorably discharged.
   • Must be a registered owner of a qualifying vehicle (passenger car, recreational motor vehicle, or one-ton pickup, excluding commercial motor vehicles).

2. Design & Inscription:

   • The new license plate will be inscribed with a facsimile (image) of the Army of Occupation Medal.
   • The plate will bear the inscription: "ARMY OF OCCUPATION" directly below the plate number.

3. Additional Special Veteran Plates Covered:

   • The bill confirms or modifies various other veteran-related special plates, including plates for:
     • Vietnam War veterans, World War II veterans, Purple Heart recipients, Persian Gulf War veterans, Bronze Star and Silver Star recipients, and others.
     • Recognition of other military honors like the Iraq Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Medal.

4. Fees & Transfers:

   • A special plate fee is required upon issuance.
   • The plates can be transferred to another qualifying vehicle owned by the same person for a $5 fee.

5. Administration:

   • The Commissioner of Veterans Affairs and Commissioner of Public Safety will oversee the plate design and issuance.
   • The Commissioner of Public Safety is responsible for verifying an applicant’s eligibility.
   • The Commissioner may adopt administrative rules to regulate these plates.

Purpose:

The bill aims to recognize and honor veterans who have been awarded the Army of Occupation Medal by granting them the opportunity to display a specialized license plate.

Would you like further clarification on any part of the bill?