Bill bans license plate covers and fake plates, funds toll evasion crackdown

What does this do?

HR 7797 makes it illegal to sell products that hide license plates, such as tinted covers or spray coatings that block cameras. It also bans selling fake, counterfeit, or altered plates, and reselling real state-issued plates without permission. Rules take effect 90 days after enactment, and the Federal Highway Administration must publish advisory guidance on plate readability within the same window.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects online and physical retailers selling plate-obscuring products, people who evade tolls, and state and local agencies that manage roads and tolls. The Federal Trade Commission enforces the sales prohibitions, while the Federal Highway Administration issues the readability guidance.

Why does it matter?

States and local agencies are not required to change existing plate designs or rules, as the guidance is advisory only. The grant program is intended to help agencies build technology systems and share information to identify repeat toll evaders across jurisdictions.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Up to $10M per year in grants
• Covers 2027 through 2030
• States and toll operators eligible

Where does it stand?