This bill amends Nebraska's statutes concerning license plates, particularly focusing on Military Honor Plates, prisoner-of-war license plates, disabled veteran license plates, and Purple Heart license plates. Notable changes include the introduction of Military Honor Plates for members of the United States Space Force, effective January 1, 2026, and the creation of new designs for plates honoring veterans with specific campaign medals. The bill also establishes a requirement for applicants to provide proof of disability for certain license plates and expands eligibility for Military Honor Plates to include trusts that own vehicles if a designated beneficiary qualifies. Additionally, it removes certain language regarding the number of designs for Military Honor Plates and adjusts the associated fees, while ensuring that the costs of manufacturing these plates remain consistent with standard license plate fees.
Furthermore, the bill outlines that starting January 1, 2026, the Department of Motor Vehicles will issue new license plates for disabled veterans, featuring the inscription "disabled veteran" below the license plate number, which will become invalid for use after February 1, 2027. Eligibility for these plates is extended to veterans classified as at least ten percent service-connected disabled by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as qualifying trusts. The bill mandates registration with the Department of Veterans' Affairs and verification by the Department of Motor Vehicles, stipulates that no fees will be charged for these plates, and provides for free replacements if they are lost or damaged. Additionally, temporary license stickers will be issued while awaiting permanent plates, aiming to streamline the process for veterans and enhance recognition of their service.