Washington state drivers may get apple-themed license plates

Cougs, Mount Rainier, and soon apples?

If you’re a person who likes expressing themselves through choice of license plate, and feel suffocated by the lack of options, you’re in luck.

State Sen.Brad Hawkins tells us he will introduce a bill next month to create an apple-themed license plate. He’s teaming up with the Washington Apple Commission and the Washington Apple Education Foundation on the bill, which now has 20 bipartisan co-sponsors, because it’s hard to strongly oppose apple-themed license plates.

New apple variety Cosmic Crisp hits the shelves

Licensing rules require at least 3,500 signatures from people who intend to purchase a specialty plate before it will be created. Washington’s Apple Commission is collecting signatures online.

“I’m a big supporter of Washington apples and believe this bill will bring awareness to the industry and help raise money for local scholarships,” said Hawkins. “The Washington Apple Commission and Washington Apple Education Foundation do great work, so I am excited to partner with them on what should certainly be a well-supported bill. I don’t expect controversy but passing anything in a short session is a challenge.”

QFCs in Bellevue and Kirkland to begin growing produce in-store

They’ll definitely cost more than an apple. Many Washington specialty plates — promoting Washington universities, sports teams, parks, military, among other things — tend to range from $60 to $75, depending on the vehicle, design, and licensing fees. How the $30 car tabs impacts all of this remains to be seen.

Follow @http://twitter.com/Mynorthwest