Florida Governor Vetoes
Pro-Adoption License Plate

By Liz Townsend

Florida Governor Lawton Chiles angered pro-lifers and adoption supporters when he vetoed legislation that would have allowed them to buy special license plates that would directly assist organizations helping women to make adoption plans for their babies. Chiles said in his May 20 veto message that the words on the plate, "Choose Life," would bring division and controversy to the state.

"The governor's objections are patently disingenuous," said Lynda Bell, president of Florida Right to Life. "The more than 14,000 Floridians who signed petitions supporting this tag did so to support the message 'Choose Life.' This is a free speech issue and the people of Florida have spoken."

Bell, added, "This message conveys their support for adoption. Why does Gov. Chiles insist upon demanding that they edit their message to suit him?"

There are 41 special license plates in Florida, with messages ranging from "Save the Manatee" [a large aquatic mammal] to supporting local sports teams. Revenues from the sale of the " Choose Life" plate would have been sent directly to organizations supporting adoption.

Chiles also objected to a clause in the bill denying funds from the license plate to organizations that refer, conduct, or counsel women for abortion. "This tag is not about abortion - - it is about adoption," said Bell. "This is a thinly veiled attempt by the governor to pacify the pro-abortion industry in Florida. And I find it sad that Gov. Chiles would use that as an excuse to veto the free speech of the citizens of Florida."