2002 Veto
2002 No Action
2001 Veto
2001 No Action
2000 Signature
2000 Veto
2000 No Action
1999 Signature
1999 Veto
1998 Signature
1998 Veto
1998 No Action
1997 Signature
1997 Veto
1996 Signature
1996 Veto
1995 Signature
1995 Veto
1995 No Action
June 26, 2002
TO THE HONORABLE, THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
In accordance with the provisions of Rhode Island General Laws § 43-1-4, I am transmitting herewith with my disapproval, 2002-H 7110, "An ACT Relating to Motor and Other Vehicles - Registration of Vehicles."
This bill directs the administrator of the division of motor vehicles to design and issue separate special street rod and custom vehicle plates that shall indicate "street rod" or "custom vehicle." (A "street rod" is defined as any 1948 model year car or older or a vehicle that has been manufactured after 1948 to resemble a vehicle manufactured before 1949. A "custom vehicle" is defined as a motor vehicle that is at least 25 years old and of a model year after 1948 or a vehicle manufactured to resemble a vehicle that is at least 25 years old and a model year after 1948.) Upon submission of necessary information, accompanied by a fee of $15, the administrator is directed 10 issue these plates.
At the present time the Division of Motor Vehicles issues approximately forty (40) different plate types. The initial cost 10 implement a new plate classification is not insignificant. In this case, it is believed that the number of individuals who will request these plates is exceedingly small. If, as expected, approximately 100 individuals apply for these special plates, each set (2) will cost the State approximately $55, for a total of $11,000. This figure also does not take into consideration the additional costs associated with the handling and distribution of the plates.
Furthermore, this bill reduces the current registration fee for these autos from $30 to $15, thus costing the Stare an additional $1,500, using the estimate of 100 applicants. In the current fiscal climate, there is no sound rationale for creating a separate plate classification for the small group of owners of "street rods" or "custom vehicles" that would cost the State $12,500 or more.
It should also be noted that the State Police question the need for another type of plate, the use of which can lead to confusion in law enforcement.
For the foregoing reasons, I disapprove of this legislation and respectfully urge your support of this veto.
Sincerely,
Lincoln Almond
Governor