Alliance Defending Freedom
Legislators Turn a Blind Eye to LGBTQ+ License Plate Push
Arizona lawmakers have approved new special license plates to support various causes, including those for sororities and fraternities. However, they voted along party lines against a proposal for a plate aimed at funding community college scholarships for LGBTQ+ students.
Representative Lorena Austin, a Mesa Democrat, criticized this decision, asserting it underscores a hypocrisy in the Republican stance on equal treatment. “You want rights and freedoms for certain people,” said Austin, who identifies as nonbinary, “but not for those like me.”
During the discussion, no Republicans offered justification for excluding the LGBTQ+ group. According to state law, organizations can raise money through special license plates, with a portion of the $25 fee supporting their activities. Sponsoring groups must cover initial production costs of $32,000 before any funds can be distributed.
This marks the addition of more than 100 special plates approved by state lawmakers. Various organizations, such as the Phoenix Suns and Arizona Diamondbacks, have their plates, while others serve specific initiatives, like promoting science education or funding child abuse prevention programs.
Austin pointed out that some existing plates carry distinct political messages, such as the “Choose Life” and “In God We Trust” plates, which fund activities linked to the conservative agenda. “It’s unfair that we accept these others but deny a community that simply exists,” she stated.
The process does not involve state funds, as sponsoring organizations must front all costs. Austin emphasized that individuals are not compelled to purchase any plate; it remains a personal choice. She challenged fellow lawmakers to demonstrate their commitment to equality for the LGBTQ+ community.
“When people in this body say they are not against us, here’s your opportunity to prove it,” Austin remarked. The recent vote, she concluded, reinforces claims of discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals within the legislative process.
