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Bill

Bill

HB 811

License plates, spec.; issuance to supporters of Richmond SPCA bearing legend SAVING LIVES TOGETHER.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Betsy Carr

Authorizes Virginia DMV to issue specialty license plates supporting Richmond SPCA with "SAVING LIVES TOGETHER" legend, generating nonprofit funding through plate sales.

Assigned HTRAN sub: Department of Motor Vehicles
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Bill Summary · HB 811

Legislative bill overview

HB 811 authorizes the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles to issue specialty license plates bearing the legend "SAVING LIVES TOGETHER" for supporters of the Richmond Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). This is a standard specialty plate program that allows organizations to generate revenue through plate sales while increasing public awareness.

Why is this important

Specialty license plates are a low-cost funding mechanism for nonprofits, generating revenue without direct taxpayer appropriation. The Richmond SPCA would receive proceeds from plate sales to support animal welfare services. These plates also serve as mobile advocacy, increasing organizational visibility across Virginia roadways.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue allocation specifics: The bill language does not specify what percentage of plate sales revenue goes to the SPCA versus DMV administrative costs, which is typically detailed in fiscal impact statements
  • Administrative burden: DMV must design, produce, and manage inventory for another specialty plate variant, adding operational complexity with marginal revenue benefit
  • Plate proliferation: Virginia already offers numerous specialty plates; some may question whether additional plates dilute the exclusivity and desirability that drives sales

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

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