Lawmakers tackle fraudulent dealer plates and tax evasion

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing issue of counterfeit vehicle tags and the fraudulent use of dealer plates, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and enforcement measures.

During the session, it was confirmed that vehicles displaying counterfeit tags are confiscated by law enforcement, as these tags often indicate that the vehicle is either stolen or improperly registered. The conversation shifted to dealer plates, which are intended for use by dealership corporate officers and full-time employees. A key point emphasized was that dealer plates must only be used on vehicles within the dealership's inventory and cannot be applied to personal vehicles.

Chairman Corbett noted that misuse of dealer plates often leads to tax evasion, where individuals exploit dealer licenses to avoid paying taxes on personal vehicles. Additionally, there have been instances of dealer plates being improperly displayed on vehicles used for other businesses, such as food trucks and ride-sharing services.

The meeting also showcased examples of counterfeit dealer plates, including laminated copies affixed to old license plates. Law enforcement officials were advised on how to identify legitimate dealer plates, including checking registration status and inspecting the physical characteristics of the tags.

The discussion concluded with a focus on potential solutions to combat these issues, which officials categorized into three main areas. The meeting underscored the importance of addressing the fraudulent use of dealer plates to ensure compliance and protect the integrity of vehicle registration processes.