The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish a new category of special registration plates for recipients of the Distinguished Medal of Valor, awarded to firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency medical services personnel who have demonstrated exceptional bravery. The Division of Motor Vehicles is tasked with designing the insignia for these plates. Eligible Medal of Valor recipients may apply for a special registration plate for any Class A vehicle titled in their name, and they must provide satisfactory proof of their qualification as determined by the commissioner. Additionally, surviving spouses of Medal of Valor recipients can continue to use the special plates until certain conditions are met.

The bill also specifies that registration plates issued to Medal of Valor recipients are exempt from the standard registration fees, and a one-time fee of $10 will be charged for a second plate. This fee will be deposited into the State Road Fund. The legislation aims to honor and recognize the extraordinary service of these individuals while providing them with a unique identification on their vehicles.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17A-3-14j
Committee Substitute: 17A-3-14g
Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute: 17A-3-14g