Monday, October 6, 2008

Pro-life license plates

It's official. The pro-life group called the Arizonia Life Coalition has won its lengthy case with the state commission on whether or not to have "Choose Life" license plates. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said the state violated the group's right to freedom of speech.

Arizonia will now join states like Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, and Hawaii which support the pro-life vehicle tags. According to reports, money earned from the tags go to anti-abortion organizations.

So what about Pro-Choice license plates? Currently, the only state that can legally have these tags is Montana. My question is, "Why does one state have this option and not the 49 others?"

Some states and organizations have fought for pro-choice tags, but it's an endless battle. I came across the issue after reading CNN.com's homepage. First of all, I don't think it's a pressing issue that needs immediate attention, but pro-choicers have a good argument. I mean if pro-life groups can have easy access to personalized license plates, why can't pro-choice groups. Technically, pro-choice organizations have First Amendment rights to, so why is it difficult for them to acquire a personalized tag?

Anti-supporters said pro-choice motorists should simply have "Choose Death" stamped on their vehicles. I find that comment uncalled for and completely unneccessary. Don't get me wrong. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and beliefs, but I don't think it should be branded on a license plate.