OLYMPIA, Wash. — Legislation to create a special 4-H license plate for the state’s largest youth development program is now in effect. Governor Christine Gregoire signed the bill March 23 which will allow the design of a license plate with the 4-H clover. House Bill 2299, sponsored by Rep. Judy Warnick (R- Moses Lake), a former 4-H’er, permits drivers to purchase the plates for $40.00 and $30.00 for renewal in addition to the cost of standard license plates.
“The specialized 4-H license plates will be a wonderful way for current 4-H families as well as alumni and supporters to increase awareness about the 4-H program as they drive across town or across the state,” said Pat BoyEs, Director, 4-H Youth Development, Washington State University Extension.
The Department of Licensing will collect the fees and deposit funds after administrative expenses into the newly created 4-H programs account in the state treasury. Money raised will go toward activities to support the 90,000 youth served in the state.
In addition to support from Rep. Warnick the bill was also backed by Senators Curtis King and Mary Margaret Haugen.
In February, a group of 4-H students spoke in favor of the bill in a Senate transportation hearing committee meeting. The youth were in Olympia as part of the annual WSU Extension 4-H Know Your Government Conference.
The 4-H license plate bill goes into effect January 1, 2013.
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