CA SB257

Authorizes the DMV to issue Gold Star Family license plates as environmental license plates beginning January 1, 2017, if applicants pay environmental and specialized license plate fees.

Eliminates the $48 personalization fee for Gold Star Family plates that was originally proposed; plates remain issued in sequential series without the personalization option.

Directs revenue from Gold Star Family environmental license plates to the Motor Vehicle Account within the State Transportation Fund until the DMV recovers its upfront implementation costs, then to the Veterans Service Office Fund.

Exempts Gold Star Family license plates from standard specialized license plate fees (original issuance, renewal, and environmental fees) when issued in sequential series.

Repeals the existing Section 5157 on January 1, 2017, and replaces it with new provisions governing the Gold Star Family environmental license plate program.