Florida has enacted a new law impacting motor vehicle regulations, specifically pertaining to license plates. House Bill 253 introduces significant changes that raise important questions among drivers, particularly regarding the legality of their license plate frames.
Understanding House Bill 253
The latest law, effective immediately, designates specific actions related to license plates as criminal offenses. Previously considered minor violations, certain alterations to license plates now carry harsher penalties. Offenders could face fines and potential jail time.
Key Changes in License Plate Regulations
Under HB 253, alterations that make a license plate unreadable or obscure its essential details are now classified as second-degree misdemeanors. The following actions are prohibited:
- Mutilating or defacing a registered license plate
- Changing the color of the license plate
- Applying materials that obscure the plate details
- Attaching devices that hinder the visibility of the plate
If caught violating these rules, offenders could face fines up to $500 and imprisonment for as long as 60 days.
License Plate Obscuring Devices
Additionally, the law introduces strict prohibitions against license plate obscuring devices. Such devices are defined as tools designed to:
- Switch between multiple license plates
- Hide a license plate from view
- Cover or interfere with the details of the license plate
These actions are now criminal offenses under the new law, highlighting the seriousness of compliance.
Florida Sheriff’s Association Clarification
The Florida Sheriff’s Association has clarified the status of their license plate frames under House Bill 253. They state that frames are designed to maintain visibility and should not violate the law when properly installed. It’s crucial for drivers to ensure their frames do not obscure important information on the license plate.
Conclusion
In summary, House Bill 253 introduces substantial legal changes for Florida drivers regarding license plates. Understanding what constitutes an illegal alteration is essential to avoid becoming ensnared in legal trouble. Staying informed can help you navigate these new regulations effectively.
