The bill amends Chapter 31-3 of the General Laws regarding the registration of vehicles by introducing a new section, 31-3-132, which establishes "manufacturing industry" plates. These plates will be available for motor vehicles eligible for registration as automobiles or for commercial vehicles weighing 12,000 pounds or less. The plates are designated for individuals engaged in the manufacturing business, defined as entities within the state that take raw materials or components and add value to create a final, recognizable product using hands, machinery, tools, appliances, and other similar equipment, excluding manufacturers of motor vehicles as defined by 31-5.1-1.

Applicants must provide information verifying their occupation in the manufacturing industry that is satisfactory to the division of motor vehicles and pay a service charge of $20 for the plates. The design of the "manufacturing industry" plates will feature blue letters and numbers on a white background, with "Rhode Island" clearly visible at the top center and the letters "MID" displayed down the left side in all capital letters. Vehicle owners will still be required to pay the appropriate registration fees associated with their vehicle type, whether it is an automobile or a commercial vehicle. The act is set to take effect six months after its passage.