SPECIAL VETERANS DAY EDITION

A simple way we can support veterans

New bill would create fundraising license plate to benefit local veterans and military personnel

A bill currently working its way through the Michigan Legislature provides a far-reaching but simple opportunity for the general public to support local veterans. House Bill 4788 authorizes the creation of a fundraising license plate for veteran initiatives.

Proceeds from the plate will be earmarked for local veteran outreach services as well as scholarships for veterans, soldiers and their families. According to Secretary of State Ruth Johnson, who announced the proposed legislation with the bill’s sponsor, Rep. Jim Stamas, the plate will be available for purchase beginning in the spring of 2014, provided it is passed into law.

Like other fundraising plates, the cost of the new plate is $35, which includes a $25 donation for veteran programs (as well as the regular vehicle registration). When renewing the plate, motorists pay their normal registration fee along with $10 to fund the veterans’ initiatives.

Above: Johnson is pictured at the state Capitol with military officials and veterans after announcing new initiatives in February.

In the works...

Free mechanic license may be on the horizon for honorably discharged soldiers

Though early in the planning stage, the Secretary of State’s Office is working with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs on a rule change allowing honorably discharged soldiers the ability to obtain an initial mechanic license certificate at no cost if they received mechanic training in the military. Johnson's office previously worked to allow a similar accomodation for military truck drivers to more easily receive CDL certification in Michigan.

Such a change would provide an easier transition to civilian life for returning military personnel as well as veterans. With the proposed change still in the concept stage, no timeframe for implementation is available. Stay tuned for future updates.

Habitat for Humanity program gives volunteers the chance to help veterans

Did you know that Habitat for Humanity has a specific program in which volunteers can help provide housing for U.S. veterans and their families? Find out more about Habitat's Veterans Build program.

Veteran designation is on track for May 2014

Secretary of State Ruth Johnson said Michigan is on track to begin issuing a veteran designation on driver's licenses and state ID cards in May 2014 for the state's nearly 700,000 veterans.

To obtain the designation when it becomes available, veterans will be required to provide proof of past active military service with honorable or general discharge.

Johnson said the designation will make it easier for veterans to obtain the services and benefits they have earned and deserve.

November is Hire a Veteran Month

Secretary Johnson applauds and supports Gov. Rick Snyder's declaration of November as Hire a Veteran Month in Michigan.

Employers in the state are encouraged to consider veterans for jobs and to assist those returning from service with the transition to employment.

MI offers many license plates for veterans

To honor those who served, Michigan offers more than 20 different veteran and military service license plates for vehicles and the six plates pictured above for motorcycles.

A Gold Star Family license plate is also available to immediate family members of military personnel who lost their lives in combat.

See all of the plate options in the Department of State's License Plate Store.