SACRAMENTO, Calif. /California Newswire/ — Assembly Bill (AB) 1658, by Assemblyman Mike Gatto (D–Los Angeles) was signed today by Governor Brown, establishing the California Legacy License Plate Program. The program will allow car enthusiasts to apply to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for one of three iconic California license plate designs – the familiar “yellow with black lettering,” “black with yellow lettering” and “blue with yellow lettering” – that adorned vehicles during the heyday of classic cars.
“California Government doesn’t do much for the thousands of car enthusiasts up and down the state,” said Gatto. “AB 1658 will enable the backyard auto restorer, the nostalgic, or the owner of a brand-new retro-styled automobile to choose a license plate that best matches the look of their car while making a little money for the state too.”
AB 1658 specifies that the DMV will issue any one of the vintage plates once 7,500 paid applications for that design have been received statewide. Further, it stipulates that any monies remaining after the DMV recuperates its administrative costs be placed into other DMV-funded programs, which with recent budget cuts, have been short on funds. California motorists will be able to apply to DMV for these license plates starting January 1, 2013 when the new law goes into effect. The measure has received an enthusiastic response so far, with many people contacting the Assemblyman’s office asking when and where they can apply.
“This is an easy way for the state to make life a little more enjoyable for those of us who appreciate the classic era of automobile design,” said Gatto. “I look forward to continuing working with the California car clubs and car enthusiasts who have been so supportive in passing this bill. We are ready to start the drive to reach 7,500 orders!”
Mike Gatto represents the cities of Burbank, Glendale, and parts of Los Angeles, including Los Feliz, Silver Lake, and Atwater Village. He is the Chairman of the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
