Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill to Increase License Plate Options, Streamline Processes

"Not only does this bill streamline issuance procedures for license plates by removing processes that were inefficient and unnecessary, but it also gives Kansans more agency while simultaneously contributing to the state’s economic well-being,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “House Bill 2201 is good, commonsense legislation and a win for all.” 

In addition to authorizing the three new license plate styles, the bill also creates the license plate replacement fund and modifies requirements for the issuance and production of license plates as well as the documentation requirements for military license plate applications. These changes clean up existing procedures, making the process more efficient for veterans as well as everyday Kansans.  

“Increasing the options available for distinctive license plates is a simple way to allow Kansans to show off their interests and values on the road,” said Senator for District 7 Ethan Corson. “I’m proud to support this bipartisan legislation that will benefit groups ranging from farmers to veterans.” 

The FFA and Route 66 plate sales will directly benefit their respective foundations. The blackout-style license plate will incur a $50 fee, which will be directed to the Kansas Department of Revenue to pay costs associated with replacing license plates at the end of their lifespans. 

“Kansas's distinctive license plate bills empower Kansans to support organizations they value,” said Representative for District 125 Shannon Francis. “One plate in this bill supports the Future Farmers of America, an organization that has profoundly impacted generations of Kansans. FFA plays a crucial role in nurturing leadership skills among youth and preparing them for careers in agricultural science, business, and technology.” 

In addition to House Bill 2201, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills: 

House Bill 2169: Addresses remediation costs for owners of certain nonresidential property located in Johnson County.  

House Bill 2249: Establishes the south central regional mental health hospital in state law. The bill also requires the secretary for aging and disability services to grant physical environment waivers for certain rural emergency hospitals to provide skilled nursing facility care. 

House Bill 2255: Makes changes to the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program to give more flexibility to program participants, providing new opportunities for water conservation efforts. The bill also updates statutes governing the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Weights and Measures program. 

House Bill 2280: Adds a citation to the code of federal regulations to the definition of veteran and disabled veteran, ensuring all persons that have been designated a veteran by an act of Congress are so designated in Kansas law. The bill also allows the spouses of military members who are not on active duty to be eligible for the waiving of fees for occupational licensure. 

House Bill 2313: Protects state computer systems by prohibiting the use of artificial intelligence platforms controlled by foreign adversaries on state networks. The bill also prohibits medical and research facilities from using certain genetic technologies produced by foreign adversaries, ensuring the security of the biotechnology industry in Kansas. 

House Bill 2334: Updates law related to the regulation of the insurance industry to implement new best practices to ensure accountability and transparency, helping Kansas maintains its accreditation with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. 

House Bill 2342: Authorizes national criminal history background checks as well as the request for the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to conduct background checks for final applicants for certain sensitive positions with the department of commerce and certain employees within the department of labor. 

House Bill 2371: Amends the Kansas revised limited liability company act, the business entity transactions act, and the business entity standard treatment act to incorporate new best practices.