Senate Bill No. 1150 aims to provide no-cost driver's license and identity card renewals for veterans by amending Section 14-41 of the general statutes. The bill allows the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to waive renewal fees for individuals whose licenses indicate veteran status. Additionally, veterans who apply for renewal more than six months before their license expires will receive a voucher for free renewal during that period. The bill also includes provisions for the issuance of duplicate licenses and identity cards by authorized contractors and municipalities, permitting a convenience fee not exceeding eight dollars.

Moreover, the bill repeals and substitutes Section 1-1h, which governs the application process for identity cards, allowing the Commissioner to waive application fees for certain individuals, including veterans who are blind or experiencing homelessness. The new language specifies that original identity cards will expire within seven years of the applicant's next birthday, and the Commissioner may notify cardholders of impending expiration dates. Additionally, the bill classifies misrepresentation of age or deceit in obtaining an identity card as a class D misdemeanor, leading to revocation of the card. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is projected to result in an annual revenue loss of approximately $180,000 to the Special Transportation Fund due to the waived fees for veterans.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 14-41, 1-1h
VA Joint Favorable: 14-41, 1-1h
File No. 252: 14-41, 1-1h