Religious Licence Plates Update

The Americans United for Separation of Church and State sent out a press release warning the Florida government that SB 0642 could spark a lawsuit. Americans United have a problem with the religious licence plates sponsored by Senators Gary Siplin and Ronda Storms.

SB 642 mandates issuance of a plate depicting the crucified head of Jesus complete with a crown of thorns. It also mandates a second plate featuring a large cross, a stained-glass church window and the words "I Believe."

"These plates clearly violate the Constitution and basic fairness," said the Rev. Barry W. Lynn, Americans United executive director. "It's wrong for the legislature to favor one faith over others. If this bill passes, it is almost certain to provoke a lawsuit.

"I am frankly shocked that any legislator would think these plates are constitutionally acceptable," Lynn continued. "It is deeply offensive when officials play political games with the sacred symbols of any faith."

Gov. Charlie Crist told reporters he supports the Storms and Siplin licence plates. "If they don’t want one they don’t have to buy one," Crist said, in response to questions about separation of church and state. The Christian Broadcasting Network ran a story about Crist's support on their web site. The bill amendments passed 22 to 13. The Senate never even had an idea what Siplin's and Storms' licence plates would look like. The devil isn't in the details.