ACTIVE-DUTY MILITARY SPECIAL REG. PLATE S.B. 532:

SUMMARY OF INTRODUCED BILL

IN COMMITTEE

Senate Bill 532 (as introduced 9-9-25)

Sponsor: Senator John Cherry

Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure

Date Completed: 10-27-25

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.

MCL 257.803i Legislative Analyst: Abby Schneider

FISCAL IMPACT

The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.

Fiscal Analyst: Joe Carrasco, Jr.

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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.