Previous Story
License plates now required in vehicle’s front, rear
|
Posted on Jul 12 2004
Unofficial license plates may no longer be displayed in front of motor vehicles.
It is now law to display Bureau of Motor Vehicle-issued license plates in the front and rear sides of the vehicle, with the signing into law of House Bill 14-18 yesterday.
“This requirement will greatly enhance the ability of our law enforcement officials to quickly identify vehicles and assist residents to recognize vehicles entering their private property,” Gov. Juan N. Babauta said.
The governor signed the bill into law that amends the statutory provision requiring the display of an official plate only at the vehicle’s rear.
Operating a motor vehicle that does not display the Commonwealth number plates is considered a misdemeanor offense, which entails imprisonment or fine.
The amended version of 9 CMC § 2106 now partly reads: “Every owner whose vehicle or bicycle is registered shall display the plates issued by the bureau showing the registration number and year. Each of these plates shall be attached properly to the front and rear of the vehicle or bicycle, at the factory designated position.”
“The plates shall be kept clean and the numbers must be clearly visible from a distance of 50 feet. No vehicle or bicycle owner may display an unofficial plate at the front or rear of his vehicle or bicycle,” it states further.
Rep. Claudio Norita, a former police major, introduced the bill, along with Reps. Jesus SN. Lizama, Janet U. Maratita, Crispin M. Ogo, and Ray N. Yumul.
According to the bill, the Legislature found that many vehicle owners do not display both license plates on the vehicle.
“Many vehicle owners choose to only display the plates on the rear of the vehicles. This has been problematic for the Department of Public safety, creating difficulty on identifying fleeing vehicles,” it states.
The governor also suggested to the Legislature to come up with another bill that would seek to regulate the display of license plates on modified vehicles.
