Gov. Steve Beshear prepares to sign House Bill 221 with the bill’s sponsor, Rep. Rick Nelson of Middlesboro. The legislation achieves one of the top priorities of veterans’ groups in Kentucky by allowing driver’s licenses and state I.D. cards to be marked with a special designation for veterans.

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FRANKFORT — Veterans would have proof of their military service on drivers’ licenses under a bill sponsored by Rep. Rick Nelson that was signed into law by Gov. Steve Beshear.

“This was a top of priority of many veterans service organizations in Kentucky for the 2012 legislative session,” said Rep. Rick Nelson of Middlesboro. “This legislation will make it easier for veterans to have a form of I.D. that shows eligibility for various discounts and special services that are available to them.”

Nelson’s legislation, House Bill 221, will provide drivers’ licenses and state identification cards with “veteran” designations. The cards would be available to anyone who served in the armed forces, including the Coast Guard, who left the service honorably.

Veterans would 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.

The new law goes into effect in mid-July, 90 days after the General Assembly’s 2012 session adjourns.

“ 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 it’s important for policymakers to do whatever we can to support them.”