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Tax Commission recommends ending new issuance of "special‑interest" plates
Summary
The Utah State Tax Commission proposed stopping the issuance of newly requested "special‑interest" license plates, arguing that the division director’s discretionary role creates unnecessary appeals for a low‑value plate.
The Utah State Tax Commission recommended discontinuing the issuance of new "special‑interest" plates in the state because the statute's second prong — that the division director may recognize a make or model as having "unique interest or historic value" — invites subjective review and administrative appeals for a low‑value plate.
Jason Gardner said the special‑interest plate category requires either that a vehicle be 20 years or older or that the division director recognize the make or model as having special interest. Gardner described director review as a poor use of time that leads to appeals and administrative hearings over a $7 plate; he recommended stopping new production while allowing existing plates to remain with current holders.
Representative Christofferson suggested retiring the specialty category in favor of established vintage or historic plates, and Senator Reby asked if the designation confers any tax or emissions benefit; Gardner said it does not — it is an aesthetic plate only.
The committee did not adopt legislative changes during the meeting. Gardner said the Tax Commission would consider stopping new issuance while leaving existing plates in circulation.
