ACTIVE-DUTY MILITARY SPECIAL REG. PLATE S.B. 532:
SUMMARY OF BILL
REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE
Senate Bill 532 (as reported without amendment)
Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
ACTIVE-DUTY MILITARY SPECIAL REG. PLATE S.B. 532:
SUMMARY OF BILL
REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE
Senate Bill 532 (as reported without amendment)
Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
CONTENT
The bill would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to require the Secretary of State (SOS) to create a special registration plate for current members of the United States Armed Forces.
Currently, a former member of any branch of the United States Armed Forces who retired or was granted an honorable discharge may apply to the SOS for a special registration plate noting that member’s affiliation with the applicable branch. This takes the form of the branch’s logo, placed before the numbers on the registration plate.
Beginning 180 days after the bill's effective date, the bill would expand this provision to include current members of the United States Armed Forces. As the current registration plates identify the registered individual as a veteran, the SOS likely would have to create alternative registration plates. These plates could be used for a passenger vehicle or for a motorcycle.
As currently required for special registration plates, an application for an active-duty special registration plate would have to be on a form prescribed by the SOS and accompanied by any proof that the applicant was a member of the U.S. Armed Forces that the SOS required. An application could not require a service fee; however, an individual who received an active-duty special registration plate would have to pay the tax levied by the SOS on a vehicle at registration.
BRIEF RATIONALE
According to the Defense Manpower Data Center, 4,571 active-duty service members resided in Michigan as of 2024. Currently, the State provides license plates recognizing military service to veterans, but it does not offer license plates recognizing active-duty service. Some believe active-duty service members should be honored while they serve, not solely after. Accordingly, it has been suggested that the State develop license plates recognizing active-duty service members.
Legislative Analyst: Abby Schneider
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.
Date Completed: 11-14-25 Fiscal Analyst: Joe Carrasco, Jr.
floor\sb532 Bill Analysis @ www.senate.michigan.gov/sfa
This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.