It’s official, motorists in Washington can now show their support for the state’s wine industry with a new specialty license plate.  The plates, which feature a picture of a vineyard near the Columbia River in central Washington, were made possible by House Bill 1530, signed into law by Governor Jay Inslee in March.  The plate will cost $40 upfront, with an annual renewal of $30.  All funds generated from the specialty plates will go to the state Department of Tourism, to advocate, promote, develop, and sustain destination tourism marketing across Washington. 

 

Puyallup Republican Representative Kelly Chambers was the prime sponsor of the legislation.

 

"I am thrilled to see this beautiful wine license plate become a reality. It not only recognizes and celebrates our state's world-class wine industry, but it also allows Washington wine enthusiasts to show their pride by displaying the plates on their vehicles," Chambers noted. "This is also a win for our state's tourism industry, which took a large hit during the pandemic. The revenue from these license plates will help the tourism industry promote our state and it's small mom-and-pop shops, local restaurants, hospitality businesses, and Main Street retail businesses, many of which offer Washington wines for sale."

 

Nearly 4,000 Washingtonians signed a petition in support of the wine specialty plate.  If you'd like to purchase one of these new plates, check out the Department of Licensing's Website.

 

There are currently 1,050 licensed wineries in Washington.  The state ranks second in the nation as wine producer.  More than 60,00 acres are dedicated to wine grapes across Washington.  More than 80 varieties produced in Washington.  And the wine industry has an over $8 billion impact on the Washington economy.

 

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