FRANKFORT — Veterans can now have proof of their military service on their drivers’ licenses as a result of a bill sponsored by Rep. Rick Nelson that was signed into law by Gov. Steve Beshear earlier this year.
“This was a top priority of many veterans service organizations in Kentucky for the 2012 legislative session,” said Nelson of Middlesboro. “This legislation will make it easier for veterans to have a form of identification that shows eligibility for various discounts and special services that are available to them.”
Nelson’s legislation, House Bill 221, provides drivers’ licenses and state identification cards with “veteran” designations. The cards are available to anyone who served in the armed forces, including the Coast Guard, who left the service honorably. Veterans simply have to show a certificate of release or discharge papers to obtain the cards at the time they would normally renew registrations. There would be no additional fees.
Veterans who received their drivers’ licenses without the veterans’ designation between July 12 and Sept. 24 can take their license back for a new one with the symbol on it at no cost.
Nelson said he thanks circuit clerk Colby Slusher from Bell County and Paul Williams from Harlan for their help with the legislation.
“I’m grateful there was so much support in the General Assembly and throughout Kentucky to support our veterans through this legislation,” Nelson said. “We owe a great debt to our veterans for the services they provided to our nation and its important for policymakers to do whatever we can to support them.”
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