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SB 291

AN ACT REQUIRING THE DISPLAY OF A NUMBER PLATE ONLY AT THE REAR OF A MOTOR VEHICLE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Sampson

Connecticut bill would eliminate front license plate requirement, allowing display at rear only, reducing regulatory costs while potentially limiting law enforcement visibility for traffic enforcement and vehicle identification.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Transportation
#motorvehiclelicenseplates
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Bill Summary · SB 291

Legislative bill overview

SB 291 would require Connecticut motor vehicles to display license plates only at the rear of the vehicle, eliminating the current requirement for front license plates. This reverses Connecticut's existing two-plate requirement that has been in place for decades. The bill was introduced by Rob Sampson and referred to the Joint Committee on Transportation in January 2025.

Why is this important

License plate visibility affects law enforcement's ability to identify vehicles in traffic violations, toll enforcement, and amber alert situations. The change would align Connecticut with states that use single rear plates, potentially reducing manufacturing costs for vehicle owners but creating practical trade-offs in public safety and revenue collection effectiveness. This represents a shift in Connecticut's automotive regulatory framework that impacts both individual drivers and government enforcement capabilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Law enforcement effectiveness: Police and highway safety advocates may argue that front plates improve vehicle identification, particularly for hit-and-run incidents and traffic law enforcement on multi-lane highways
  • Revenue collection: Tolling authorities and traffic enforcement agencies may face reduced ability to photograph vehicles from front angles, potentially impacting toll collection and traffic violation documentation
  • Cost savings vs. safety trade-offs: While eliminating front plates saves vehicle owners money on registration and manufacturing, opponents may contend this cost savings doesn't justify reduced public safety infrastructure

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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