LANSING -- Sports fans may have a new way to pledge their allegiance with specialty license plates of the Red Wings, Pistons, Lions and Tigers.
Detroit's four professional teams would have to submit a design to the Michigan Secretary of State. All the money raised from the plates beyond the state's take would be donated to the teams' chosen charities.
"Generating money for the state and resources for students involved in sports will benefit from this project," said Rep. Bert Johnson, D-Detroit.
A lot of youth programs can use help with funding, including Pop-Warner football, junior basketball, hockey and baseball, he said.
The legislation is an opportunity to raise money for the state without creating new taxes, Johnson said.
There would be a $15,000 start-up fee for each specialty plate to cover the cost of creating and producing it.
The Secretary of State already offers specialty plates for Michigan's 15 public universities and other special causes, including agricultural heritage, Children's Trust Fund, lighthouse preservation, veterans' memorial, water quality and wildlife habitat.
Residents who have been called to active duty during the Afghanistan conflict and their spouses are eligible for an Afghanistan veteran plate, as are military veterans of other conflicts.
State Sen. Tom George, R-Kalamazoo, introduced a bill that would establish a fundraising plate recognizing the bicentennial of the War of 1812. On July 17 of that year, the war began with the capture of Mackinac Island by British forces.
"A special license plate is a good way to draw attention to Michigan's role in this conflict, while at the same time raising funds to support our historic sites," said George.
Specialty plates, especially the college plates, are popular, said Ken Silfven, spokesman for the Secretary of State's office.
The agency doesn't take a position on individual causes but it will support an organization that is willing to meet the requirements.
There is a $35 fundraising fee along with other registration fees, he said.
Johnson said he thinks a lot of fans will line up to buy the sports team plates and hopes the proposal will be passed by the end of the year.
Quincy Hodgers writes for Michigan State University's Capital News Service.
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