Florida lawmakers approve design for new state license plates

Florida Senate Unanimously Approves Bill Expanding Specialty License Plate Options

In a move that could significantly increase the variety of specialty license plates available to Florida drivers, the state Senate voted unanimously on Monday in favor of a bill that would introduce new plate options. The bill, known as HB 403, had previously passed through the House with overwhelming support and is now awaiting approval from Gov. Ron DeSantis.

If signed into law, HB 403 would direct the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to design a range of new license plates, including options themed around Universal Orlando and Margaritaville. These plates would cost drivers an additional $15 to $25 per year, with a portion of the proceeds from each plate sale going to a specific organization associated with the plate.

Among the new plates proposed under the legislation are designs centered on various causes and organizations, such as Collegiate themes, the King Center, Divine Nine, Universal Orlando Resort, Margaritaville, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and more. Each plate would channel funds towards supporting the respective organization or cause it represents.

For instance, the “Live the Dream” plate would allocate a portion of its proceeds to the King Center as royalty fees for the use of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s image, while the remainder would support research for abandoned African-American cemeteries. Similarly, the “Universal Orlando Resort” plate would direct funds to Give Kids The World, a nonprofit dedicated to providing cost-free vacations to children with critical illnesses and their families.

Overall, the bill aims to expand the range of causes and organizations that can benefit from the sale of specialty license plates in Florida. If signed by Gov. DeSantis, the legislation is set to take effect on Oct. 1, ushering in a new era of customization and support for drivers across the state.

In conclusion, the unanimous approval of HB 403 by the Florida Senate signals a significant step towards enhancing the variety of specialty license plate options available to drivers. With a diverse range of designs and causes to choose from, Florida residents may soon have even more opportunities to show their support for their favorite organizations and initiatives through their vehicle license plates.