News

The Tennessee House of Representatives passed legislation giving law enforcement officers the authority to seize license plate flipping devices and impound vehicles.

House Bill 300, sponsored by State Rep. Greg Martin, R-Hixson, allows officers to confiscate license plate flippers and impound the vehicle if a license plate flipper is in use. The bill includes safeguards for vehicle owners. If the owner or operator is present, they will have the opportunity to remove the device before any action is taken. If the owner removes the flipper, officers will seize only the device as contraband and the vehicle will not be impounded.

“This legislation is an important step in ensuring the safety and discretion of our law enforcement officers as they combat the illegal use of license plate flippers,” Martin said. “We’re providing a clear process for officers to seize these devices while giving vehicle owners a chance to safely remove them before any action is taken.”

If the vehicle is impounded, the owner will be responsible for all towing, impounding fees and reasonable costs for removing the license plate flipper.

The bill aims to curb the use of license plate flippers, which obscure or alter vehicle identification numbers and hinder law enforcement efforts to track criminal activity.

Martin passed a law  in 2024 that made the manufacturing and sale of license plate flippers a Class A misdemeanor and the possession of one a Class B misdemeanor.

“Expanding on the work we began last year, House Bill 300 further enhances our ability to protect public safety and hold those who misuse these devices accountable,” Martin said.

The companion bill, Senate Bill 296, unanimously passed on the Senate floor on March 3.