CALIFORNIA – Assemblymember Catherine Stefani (D-San Francisco) introduced a new bill – AB-1085, that would fine $2,500 per item on those who manufacture or sell license plate covers, with a maximum fine of $10,000.
According to Stefani, the new legislation closes loopholes in existing law by explicitly banning tinted, shaded, and flipper-style plate covers.
Existing law imposes a $250 fine per item sold or violation.
Despite being illegal, license plate covers and flippers remain available through online platforms and retail stores across California, according to Stefani.
She said the devices have become a tool for lawbreakers.
“They’re linked to vehicle thefts, robberies, and toll evasion—undermining public safety and costing the state millions in lost transportation revenue. This bill ensures that enforcement can keep pace with technology designed to deceive,” said Stefani.
Unpaid crossings from vehicles with covered license plates resulted in $6.8 million revenue loss
The bill analysis notes the increasing use of Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) on California toll roads and the revenue loss caused by illegally covered license plates.
“According to the Bay Area Toll Authority (BATA), state-owned bridges had 946,740 unpaid crossings due to obstructed or defaced plates, resulting in loss revenue of $6.8 million, or around 1% of total revenue,” said a statement in the analysis.
However, BATA notes that only a small percentage of that lost revenue is because of customers intentionally obscuring their plates. Most obstructed plates are due to bike racks, license plate frames, or unsecured temporary paper plates flapping in the wind.
The bill is currently in the legislative process and has been referred to the Appropriations Committee to assess its financial impact.
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