Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H4088

Introduced
5/5/25  
Refer
5/5/25  
Refer
9/29/25  

Caption

Relative to a commission to redetermine the definition of disabled veteran in the laws and regulations for the registry of motor vehicles

Impact

The creation of this commission is expected to have significant implications for state laws relating to the rights and services afforded to disabled veterans. By modernizing the language used in legal texts, the bill seeks to improve how these veterans interact with state services, particularly those governed by the Registry of Motor Vehicles. The bill proposes that the commission comprise experts and veterans themselves, ensuring a breadth of perspectives in its deliberations, which may lead to improved recognition and support for disabled veterans under state jurisdiction.

Summary

House Bill 4088 aims to establish a commission responsible for modernizing the definition of 'disabled veteran' within the context of the Commonwealth's motor vehicle laws. This initiative emphasizes the necessity of updating outdated terminology and standards to reflect current understandings and needs of disabled veterans. The proposed legislation highlights the commitment to better serve veteran communities while ensuring the definitions align with contemporary practices and insights regarding veteran disabilities.

Contention

Despite broad support for enhancing services to disabled veterans, there may be contention surrounding the specifics of how the definition is modernized. Stakeholders might have differing views on which criteria should be emphasized and what constitutes a disability in the context of veteran services. The potential for bureaucratic expansion or increased state oversight in the lives of disabled veterans might provoke discussions on the balance between support and independence. Moreover, ensuring that the process is inclusive of a diverse range of veteran experiences will be crucial in moving forward without alienating segments of the veteran population.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA H3101

Relative to vehicle registration fees and sales tax for disabled veterans

MA H3243

Relative to disabled service-connected veterans and the motor vehicle excise tax

MA S1986

Relative to motor vehicle sales tax exemption for 100% disabled veterans

MA HB2273

Adding a citation to the code of federal regulations to the definition of veteran and disabled veteran.

MA SB227

Motor Vehicles – Parking – Disabled Veteran Special Registration Plates

MA H3100

Exempting disabled veterans from sales tax when leasing a motor vehicle

MA HB844

Motor Vehicle Registration - Fee Exemption - Unemployable Disabled Veterans

MA HB248

Motor Vehicle Registration - Fee Exemption - Unemployable Disabled Veterans

MA SB179

Motor Vehicle Registration - Fee Exemption - Unemployable Disabled Veterans

MA S3828

Exempts 100 percent disabled veterans from payment of motor vehicle registration fees; requires notification of eligible motorists.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.