SB170 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Cam Ward

Republican

Co-Sponsors

Gerald O. DialBryan TaylorTom WhatleyMark Slade Blackwell

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Motor vehicles, distinctive license tags, Legion of Valor member authorized to receive license tag without cost, Secs. 32-6-250, 32-6-251 am'd.

Summary

SB170 would extend the state's free distinctive license plate program to Legion of Valor members who have proven military honors or former prisoner of war status.

What This Bill Does

It amends the law to add Legion of Valor members to the list of people who can get a free distinctive license plate for private vehicles, provided they show proof of specific awards or POW status. The plate remains free of a fee or tax for LOV members, while Purple Heart recipients still pay ad valorem taxes on their vehicles. The plate categories (MOH, PHM, LOV, POW) keep their special designations, and a committee will set the design; additional plates may be issued for a fee if the person qualifies for another category. The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• Legion of Valor members who can prove they earned Medal of Honor, Army Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, or Air Force Cross, or who were former prisoners of war — eligible for a free LOV license plate for a private vehicle.
• Purple Heart recipients continue to receive a free plate but must pay ad valorem taxes on the vehicle(s) for which the plate is issued; existing MOH recipients, MOH widows, and former POWs remain eligible under current rules.
• Owners who qualify for additional distinctive plates under any category must still pay all license taxes/fees (including ad valorem taxes) to obtain extra plates.

Key Provisions

• Adds Legion of Valor membership with proof of MOH, DSC, Navy Cross, Air Force Cross, or former POW status as eligible for a free distinctive license plate under §32-6-250.
• No plate fee or tax for LOV recipients; Purple Heart recipients continue to pay ad valorem taxes on vehicles with the distinctive plates.
• Plates are designated MOH, PHM, LOV, or POW with distinct color schemes and designs to be set by a committee appointed by the chief legislative sponsors.
• A recipient may have only one plate for one vehicle unless allowed to issue additional plates under subsection (c) upon payment of all license taxes/fees (including ad valorem).
• Additional plates may be issued under any category if the person otherwise qualifies and pays applicable taxes and fees.
• Effective date: the act takes effect on the first day of the third month after it passes and is approved by the Governor.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Motor Vehicles