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Bill

H 204

MOTOR VEHICLES – Amends and adds to existing law to establish a World Famous Idaho Potatoes black license plate and a World Famous Idaho Potatoes white license plate.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 204 introduces specialty license plates in Idaho, funding the Potato Commission and highway account, allowing drivers to celebrate the state's potato heritage.

Reported Signed by Governor on March 19, 2025 Session Law Chapter 109 Effective: 07/01/2025
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Bill Summary · H 204

Summary of House Bill 204: World Famous Idaho Potatoes License Plates

Bill Overview

Bill Number: H 204
Title: MOTOR VEHICLES – Establishment of World Famous Idaho Potatoes black and white license plates
Status: Signed by Governor on March 19, 2025
Effective Date: July 1, 2025
Introduced: February 11, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Drivers, Highways, License Plates, Motor Vehicles, Transportation

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 204 aims to create two new specialty license plates in Idaho that celebrate the state's renowned potato industry. The bill establishes a black license plate with white lettering and a white license plate with teal lettering, both featuring the phrases "Idaho" at the top and "World Famous Potatoes" at the bottom. The intent is to promote Idaho's agricultural heritage while generating funds for the Idaho Potato Commission and the state highway account.

Key Provisions

  • License Plate Designs:

    • Black License Plate: All black with white lettering.
    • White License Plate: All white with teal lettering.
  • Fees:

    • Black License Plate:
    • Initial issuance fee: $70
      • $25 to the Idaho Potato Commission
      • $45 to the state highway account
    • Renewal fee: $50
      • $15 to the Idaho Potato Commission
      • $45 to the state highway account
    • White License Plate:
    • No additional fee beyond regular registration, making it the least expensive option for registered Idaho drivers.
  • Amendments to Existing Law:

    • The bill amends Sections 49-402 and 49-402D of the Idaho Code to incorporate the new license plates and establish specific fees associated with them.

Impact

  • Beneficiaries:

    • The Idaho Potato Commission will receive funding from the sale of the black license plates, which can be used for promotional and agricultural initiatives.
    • The state highway account will benefit from the fees collected, contributing to transportation infrastructure.
  • Drivers:

    • Idaho drivers will have the option to choose these new specialty plates, with the black plate being a premium option and the white plate being the most affordable.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 11, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Transportation and Defense Committee.
  • March 19, 2025: Signed by the Governor and reported as Session Law Chapter 109.
  • Effective Date: The provisions of the bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 204 establishes a new way for Idaho residents to express pride in the state's agricultural legacy while supporting local initiatives through the sale of specialty license plates. The financial structure ensures that proceeds benefit both the Idaho Potato Commission and the state highway account, promoting both agriculture and infrastructure.

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

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