Two East Bay legislators are hoping to give veterans and active-duty military personnel a break when it comes to paying for VIN inspections. 

Senate Special Legislation and Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Walter S. Felag and Rep. Jennifer Boylan have introduced legislation to waive the fee for vehicle identification number inspections for veterans and active-duty military personnel.

“From exempting military pensions from state income tax, to waiving pet adoption fees for veterans to creating special vehicle plates for Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart recipients, the General Assembly has worked over the years to make Rhode Island even more welcoming to veterans and active military members,” said Sen. Felag (D-Dist. 10, Warren, Bristol, Tiverton). “This bill is another way our state can show our appreciation and gratitude for the service and sacrifice of our military service members who have protected our nation and continue to do so.”

Rep. Boylan (D-Dist. 66, Barrington, East Providence) said waiving the fees is a small way legislators can welcome military service members and their families to the Ocean State. 

“Service members often move more frequently than civilians due to the commitment of their service, meaning these fees can add up,” Rep. Boylan said. 

When a resident registers a vehicle in Rhode Island for the first time and that vehicle’s last registration was in another state or country, they must have the VIN checked against the vehicle’s paperwork at their local police department. 

The legislation (2025-H 5081, 2025-S 0075) waives the $10 fee for this certification for veterans and active-duty military personnel, including National Guard members and military reserves.