2009.03.31
License plates
We're writing an editorial for Wednesday about Gov. Tim Kaine's decision to sign a bill allowing "Choose Life" vanity license plates in Virginia. We think he made the right decision given the state's liberal license plate system. We also agree with him that if some pro-choice group comes forward seeking "Choice!" plates or something like that, lawmakers would be compelled to grant it.
The real problem here is not one political view or another but that the state is far to cavalier with its plates. A small number should suffice to indicate licensing and aid law enforcement. If drivers want to share a political or social message, they can do so with bumper stickers and magnets.
This plate, pitched in 2001, didn't go very far.
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Does revenue from vanity plates provide funding for the DMV or other state programs?
Comment by Ed S. — March 31, 2009 @ 11:51 am
I doubt the plate that read "Slavery ended in 1865. Let's get over it!" did too well either.
Rather ironic that you just now discovered vanity plates after all the years that they were available. But it would be fun to see how many people opt for the "Choose Choice" plate.
Comment by Henry — March 31, 2009 @ 12:48 pm
I just noticed that a plate with "1148 UGH" is available...
Comment by Marked Man (Mark) — March 31, 2009 @ 1:05 pm
Sorry RTEB, I believe you missed the point. This has nothing to do with life or choice. This is all about money. The state doesn't care what you have to say as long as it can be done without causing a big stink. A small number will not attract enough customers.
Comment by Allen Bunch — March 31, 2009 @ 2:54 pm
Whether this generates modest revenue for vain drivers or not, there's a soft cost to printing and having this quantity of inventory. It must also be slightly distracting to in and out of state police, who already had to keep up with 50 state plates and innumerable permit requirements of local governments. If you want other drivers to know where you stand politically or otherwise, there's an easier (and older solution). Bumper stickers.
Comment by NRV Reader — April 1, 2009 @ 12:21 am