This bill establishes a new category of special registration plates for the U.S.S. Iowa (BB-61), a retired battleship recognized for its service in World War II and the Korean Conflict. The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) is tasked with creating these plates, which will feature a design chosen by public vote. The bill outlines the fees associated with obtaining these plates, including a special fee of $35 for letter-number designated plates and an additional $25 for personalized plates. The annual fees for maintaining these plates are set at $10 for letter-number plates and $5 for personalized plates, all of which will contribute to the road use tax fund and subsequently be allocated to the Department of Veterans Affairs for grants to organizations involved in the maintenance of the U.S.S. Iowa.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions that the DOT cannot require a minimum number of orders for the issuance of these plates and allows the department to adopt rules for their administration. If the final design of the plates does not comply with existing laws, the DOT is required to submit legislation to the General Assembly for necessary changes. The bill aims to honor the legacy of the U.S.S. Iowa while providing a means for vehicle owners to support its maintenance through the special registration plate program.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 321.34