Senate approves new license plate for Make A Wish Foundation in Arkansas

The Arkansas Senate Committee on Transportation, Technology, and Legislative Affairs convened on March 31, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on the introduction of a new specialty license plate and the retirement of an existing one.

The meeting began with a proposal to create a new license plate supporting the Make A Wish Foundation of the Mid South. This initiative comes in response to popular demand and will replace the Mid South Community College Education Specialty license plate. Senator Wallace, who is a co-sponsor of the new plate, noted that this would be his second license plate bill of the session, following one for women veterans.

Alicia Austin Smith from the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) provided insights into the inventory of the retiring license plate. She confirmed that there are currently 90 plates available annually, and individuals who already possess the Mid South Community College plate will be able to continue renewing it. However, new applicants will not be able to obtain this plate once it is officially retired.

Senator Johnson sought clarification on the implications of the retirement, confirming that existing holders of the plate would be "grandfathered in" and could renew their plates as long as inventory lasts. Once the inventory is depleted, no further plates would be issued.

The discussion also touched on the usage of various specialty plates, with Senator Wallace mentioning that some plates, like those for World War II Pearl Harbor survivors, have very limited availability due to the dwindling number of eligible individuals. The committee acknowledged that the retiring plate was among the least utilized.

After addressing all questions, the committee moved to a vote. The motion to pass the bill for the new license plate was approved unanimously, marking a successful step forward for the initiative.

In conclusion, the meeting effectively addressed the transition from the Mid South Community College plate to the new Make A Wish Foundation plate, ensuring that current holders can continue to renew their plates while introducing a new option for supporters of the foundation. The committee's actions reflect ongoing efforts to adapt Arkansas's specialty license plate offerings to better serve the community's interests.