The bill amends the existing law regarding special wildlife artwork registration plates in New Mexico by introducing a new standardized special registration plate that features an elk design, aimed at supporting the "share with wildlife" program of the Department of Game and Fish. This new plate will be available starting January 1, 2026, and will require a fee of $25 for the first year and $10 for each subsequent year for renewal. The revenue generated from these fees will be allocated to cover the costs of issuing the plates and to support the share with wildlife program.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the potential cessation of the issuance of these special plates. Beginning July 1, 2031, the Department will evaluate the number of plates issued and renewed in the previous fiscal year against the average from fiscal years 2026 to 2031. If the number falls below 50% of that average, the Department may discontinue the issuance of the special registration plates. The bill also allows for a logo design committee to recommend the design of the wildlife artwork logo, although it is not mandatory.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 66-3-424.6