“In God We Trust” License Plate Bill Clears Committee

Oklahomans would have the option to purchase a license plate displaying the national motto of “In God We Trust” if a bill approved by the Senate Finance committee becomes law.

Senate Bill 1146, written by Senator Jay Paul Gumm of Durant, was okayed by the Senate Finance Committee Tuesday; the measure now moves to the full Senate.

Under the proposal, Oklahomans could purchase license tags for their vehicles that include a patriotic display and the national motto of “In God We Trust.”

The measure is modeled after an Indiana law that created the popular tags in that state. During the first four months of availability, more than a half-million of “In God We Trust” license plates were sold to Hoosiers who wanted to display the nation’s motto. Gumm said he expects a similar response in Oklahoma.

“This license plate would give Oklahomans an extraordinary opportunity to express their feelings about the principles on which this nation is founded,” said Gumm, a Democrat.

“The motto – ‘In God We Trust’ – is found on our currency and in classrooms across the state. Surely, Oklahoma motorists who choose to do so should also be able to express their support for this profound statement of faith and national pride.”

The measure would cost taxpayers no additional money; those Oklahomans who choose to purchase the tags would have to pay a nominal fee that covers the plates’ design and production.

Gumm, who also co-authored legislation in 2004 allowing schools to display “In God We Trust” and “E Pluribus Unum” in classrooms, said he hopes SB 1146 will continue to garner bi-partisan support as it moves through the legislative process.

“There seems to be a new spirit of bipartisanship at the Capitol,” he concluded. “If there was ever a bill to bring us closer, it is one like this that reflects our shared values and respect for the principles that unite us as Americans.”