NORTH SMITHFIELD – The state could soon stop issuing a vanity plate recognizing a product made by Hasbro in light of the toymaker’s plan to relocate operations to Boston.
Rep. Brian Newberry, a Republican representing District 48 in North Smithfield and Burrillville, introduced legislation on Wednesday, Jan. 14 that would end distribution of a special license plate featuring Mr. Potato Head.
The plates, created in 2002 in honor of the toy’s 50th anniversary, cost $40 and also serve to raise funds for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. An image of the well-known animated spud with the words “Help End Hunger” have been issued upon request in the decades since, with funds split evenly between the food bank and Division of Motor Vehicle to cover costs for manufacturing and distribution. RICFB has raised $50,000 from plate sales through the years according to reports citing the organization’s website.
“He’s an icon. He’s a legend. He’s a potato! And when your vehicle sports a Potato Head license plate, everyone will know you care about the issue of hunger in Rhode Island,” notes the RICFB website.
Longtime Pawtucket business Hasbro announced plans to leave Rhode Island last year. The business is currently still operating in Rhode Island with plans to relocate by the end of 2026.
According to H 7085, co-sponsored by Rep. Thomas Noret, a Democrat from Coventry, those who have already purchased the specialty plates would be able to keep them as long as their vehicle remains registered. However, “The ‘Mr. Potato Head- 50th anniversary’ plates shall not be transferred or registered to any other or subsequent vehicle of the registered owner or the registered owner’s family or relatives.”
The plates, which can be ordered via a form found here, remain available for the time being.
The bill has been referred to House Special Legislation.
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