Authorizes creation of special license plate honoring Phi Beta Sigma and Zeta Phi Beta.
Impact
The bill requires applicants for these license plates to pay a $50 application fee in addition to standard vehicle registration fees and to renew their plate annually for $10. The proceeds after administrative costs are directed into the 'Phi Beta Sigma and Zeta Phi Beta License Plate Fund,' which will support the missions of these organizations. This approach allows the groups to benefit financially as they are appropriated funds from the generated fees, which may be vital for their operations and activities.
Summary
Senate Bill S2709 authorizes the creation and issuance of special license plates in New Jersey to honor the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. The Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission is directed to design these plates, which will feature appropriate words or slogans and emblems dedicated to both organizations. The initiative aims to celebrate the contributions of these groups while providing vehicle owners a way to express their pride.
Contention
A significant aspect of the bill is that it prohibits the use of state or public funds for the initial setup costs of the license plate program. Instead, the Phi Beta Sigma and Zeta Phi Beta organizations are responsible for covering these costs, which may not exceed $25,000, through private donations. This requirement raises concerns about whether sufficient initial funding can be secured to successfully launch the program, as the bill will remain inactive until the conditions—such as generating 500 applications—are met within a specified timeframe. Moreover, should the average cost of maintaining these plates exceed $50 for two consecutive years, the program could be terminated by the chief administrator, creating uncertainty about its long-term viability.