Florida drivers now face fines and even jail time for certain license plate accessories, under a recently enacted law designed to crack down on obscured plates. House Bill 253, which took effect October 1st, makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to cover any part of a license plate – even with decorative frames.
What the Law Changes
Previously, obstructing a license plate was often a simple traffic violation. Now, even minor obstructions, like those caused by dealership-installed frames or tinted covers, can result in a $500 fine and up to 60 days in jail. The law also introduces stricter penalties for intentionally obscuring plates with devices designed to hide or flip them.
Why the Change?
The law is primarily aimed at curbing intentional obstruction by drivers evading law enforcement. However, many everyday motorists are now caught in the crossfire, unaware that their seemingly harmless accessories are illegal. This includes decorative frames, reflective sprays, and even illuminated devices that interfere with plate readability.
Beyond Frames: New Crimes
The law doesn’t stop at accessories. It criminalizes the sale, manufacture, and use of plate-obscuring devices. Buying one is a second-degree misdemeanor, while selling or manufacturing one is a first-degree misdemeanor. Using such a device during a crime can escalate penalties to a third-degree felony, carrying up to five years in prison.
Dealerships and Enforcement
The wording of the law raises questions about its application to dealerships. The phrase “sells, offers to sell, or otherwise distributes” could potentially include dealerships that install decorative frames on new vehicles. The Sarasota Police Department has not yet clarified how this will be enforced, but until further guidance is given, drivers are advised to ensure their plates remain completely visible.
“Keep your license plate completely naked or risk the consequences.”
This law highlights a growing trend towards stricter enforcement of vehicle regulations, even in areas that were previously considered minor infractions. The move raises concerns about overcriminalization and potential unintended consequences for law-abiding drivers.
