Representatives from the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles came before the Senate Military Committee, 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 29.
Adam Holley, general counsel of the division, addressed issues surround Senate Bill 336, a bill which provides certain DMV applicants the ability to contribute to the WV Department of Veterans Assistance.
Following it’s passage in March, the ability to donate was intended to become effective on June 1, 2018, but, according to Holley, wasn’t featured on physical license renewal forms until September. The ability to donate through online renewal applications or through select kiosks machine has yet to be effective.
On average, 11,000 people renew their licenses each month, according to Holley, with a vast majority of renewal applications being physical form.
Committee Chair, Sen. Ryan Weld, R-Brooke, showed concerned over the legislation’s inactive past, citing that these issues resulted in a missed opportunity for the VA to receive donations.
Holley explained that the DMV’s online site has a history of issues, mainly concerning credit card processing, and assured the committee that they would be notified when the issues have been resolved.
The bill has currently collected $23,000 for the VA.
The Senate also reviewed Senate Bill 450, a bill which would exempt recipients of the distinguished Purple Heart medal from payment of the vehicle registration fee for West Virginia residents.
Sen. Douglas Facemire, D-Braxton, motioned to amend the bill and allow for other military distinguished service plate holders to also benefit from the bill.
Committee members unanimously voted to report a committee substitute of the bill to the full Senate following a reference to the Finance Committee.
