FORT KNOX, Ky. – It passed both the Kentucky House and Senate with 100% of the votes in its favor. Now, a bill proposing several new license plates showcasing the contributions of military members has officially gone into effect.
Retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Steven Bullard, executive director of the Kentucky Commission on Military Affairs, said while the state already offered a number of military-themed plates, the new additions are an effort to show even more support.
“The wealth of military license plate opportunities that we have is a direct result of the legislature’s commitment to demonstrating Kentucky’s value of its military and veterans,” said Bullard.
Formerly, the state of Kentucky offered plates for the different military branches, Gold Star Family members and a few select medals, according to Bullard. With the passing of the new legislation, current and former service members can obtain plates for the Bronze Star (formerly only available if the Valor device was awarded), Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, Combat Action Badge and Combat Infantryman Badge.
According the Bullard, those wishing to purchase one of the newly released plates can do so now; however, they will have to wait a little longer for the fully printed designs.
“It takes some time to develop and print the picture plates, so the newly approved license plates right now are sticker only,” said Bullard, adding the expected release date to be sometime in 2022. “You’ll have to purchase the service plate for your branch and can request the associated sticker.”
Bullard said the new plates are part of an ongoing initiative to not only make Kentucky one of the nation’s most veteran-friendly states, but also the most attractive in which to reside.
“We want to be more than friendly,” said Bullard. “We want to be ready to help veterans and military members get access to training, jobs, education; everything that we can do. It’s a real priority for us.”
Bullard explained the newly released license plates do more than simply allow veterans to show pride in their contributions. A portion of the cost of the plates also goes directly to the Kentucky Veterans Program Trust Fund, which is responsible for helping ensure veterans and their families receive all the benefits they deserve.
Bullard said he hopes with these newest additions, many more current and former military members will take advantage of the wide variety of plates offered to them by the state.
“The plates are just a great way to advertise your pride in your service,” said Bullard, “and Kentucky’s pride in you.”
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Editor’s note: Requests for a specialty license plate in Kentucky can be made at any local County Clerk’s Office. To read more on how to obtain one, costs associated with them, or to see a complete list of currently available printed plates, CLICK HERE.
Social Sharing