Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to create special license plates in Minnesota for raising awareness about colorectal cancer. It also seeks to provide funding for educational initiatives about the importance of early detection and screening for this type of cancer.

Main Provisions

• Issuance of Plates: The bill stipulates that individuals who are registered owners of specific types of vehicles—such as passenger automobiles, noncommercial one-ton pickup trucks, motorcycles, or recreational vehicles—can apply for colorectal cancer awareness special license plates.

• Eligibility and Fees: Applicants must pay a specified fee for the special plates, pay the standard vehicle registration tax, and make an annual contribution of at least $30 to the Minnesota colorectal cancer awareness account.

• Design of Plates: The Minnesota Commissioner of Public Safety, in consultation with the Colon Cancer Coalition, will design the plates. The design must include the phrase "Colorectal Cancer Awareness" and emphasize the importance of early detection and screening.

• Transfer of Plates: Special plates can be transferred to another vehicle owned by the same individual for a fee, provided the new vehicle qualifies to bear the plate.

• Exemption: The plates are exempt from certain existing requirements outlined in section 168.1293, subdivision 2.

• Funding and Appropriation: Contributions collected are deposited into the Minnesota colorectal cancer awareness account within the special revenue fund. These funds are used for the administration of the program, with the remaining balance distributed to the Colon Cancer Coalition for awareness and educational purposes. Remaining funds in the account are allocated to the Colon Cancer Coalition by August 15 each year.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill proposes adding a new statute in Minnesota Statutes chapter 168, thereby establishing a new category of special license plates and a dedicated funding source for colorectal cancer awareness and education.

Relevant Terms

• Colorectal Cancer
• License Plates
• Colon Cancer Coalition
• Early Detection
• Screening
• Special Revenue Fund