(COLUMBUS) - Ohio drivers could soon have the option to purchase a black "blackout" license plate under legislation introduced at the Statehouse.
Senate Bill 358, sponsored by Sen. Nathan Manning, R-North Ridgeville, would allow the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles to issue plates with a black background and white lettering. The design would not include county identification stickers or the state's "Birthplace of Aviation" slogan featured on standard plates.
Drivers choosing the blackout plate would pay an additional $20 annual fee plus a $10 administrative fee on top of regular registration costs, which typically range from $36 to $66 depending on local taxes.
Ohio already offers numerous specialty and personalized plates with added fees. At least nine other states -- including neighboring Indiana -- provide blackout-style options.
The bill has been referred to the Senate Transportation Committee for its first hearing. If approved by lawmakers, it would go to Gov. Mike DeWine for consideration.