This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 168.12, to authorize the issuance of special license plates for firefighters who are also certified emergency medical technicians (EMTs). The new subdivision outlines the eligibility criteria for applicants, which include being certified by the Office of Emergency Medical Services, being a member of a fire department, and owning a qualifying vehicle. Additionally, applicants must pay the specified fees and comply with existing motor vehicle registration laws. The commissioner is tasked with designing a distinct emblem for these special plates and ensuring that they are only used while the individual meets the qualifications.

The bill also establishes provisions for the transfer and invalidation of these special plates. If an individual ceases to be a member of a fire department or loses their EMT certification, the plates must be removed, and the commissioner will invalidate them upon notification. A transfer fee of $5 is set for moving the plates to another vehicle owned by the individual. Fees collected from this program will be credited to the driver and vehicle services operating account, and the commissioner is granted the authority to adopt rules governing the issuance and use of these special plates. The effective date for this legislation is January 1, 2026, applying to plates issued on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 168.12