Citizens oppose ‘scenic’ slogan option on license plates – 770 citizens, 1832 responses

Rep. Suzanne Smith is the primary sponsor of HB 1241, a bill that would allow drivers to replace the motto “Live Free or Die” with “Scenic” on their license plates. On November 30th, the Live Free or Die Alliance (LFDA) decided to put the issue to Facebook members, posing the question, “Should NH drivers be allowed to choose an alternative to the "Live Free or Die" motto on their license plates?”

A total of 80% of respondents answered directly or with a concurrence. Out of these responses, a 90% majority opposed allowing an alternate slogan on New Hampshire license plates, with only 10% in favor. Of the remaining respondents, 12% opted to discuss the subject in broader terms while 7% commented on unrelated issues. In sum, 770 citizens participated in the discussion with a total of 1,832 responses. 

Opponents of the bill strongly expressed their view that the current motto should remain the only option for New Hampshire drivers.  “Don't even consider anything other than Live Free or Die. I have 16 ancestors who fought for that motto,” one citizen said. Many others expressed the opinion that those who did not like the motto had the option to move elsewhere. “I reckon anybody who would want to take the state motto off of their plate doesn't deserve to live in the state,” a commenter wrote. “License plates should have the state motto. Make your choice to personalize with your lettering/numbers,” another respondent suggested. 

Those in favor of the bill largely stated their personal support for the current motto, but favored the idea of giving people a choice. “Nothing will say 'live free' more than the personal freedom to display whatever motto one chooses on a license plate,” a commenter wrote. “I think people should be able to put on their car whatever they want,” another stated. “I remember ‘Scenic’ NH and like it better than the bellicose live free or die,” a citizen said. 

Those opting not to give a yes or no response discussed a broad range of other issues. “There should be more than just the two alternative plates (state parks and wildlife). What about one that funds education?” a citizen suggested. Another commenter expressed a view echoed by several other respondents. “Isn't there something more important than this? Can't you sponsor a bill that is for lower taxes, better health care, help seniors?” 

Click here to read the full Facebook discussion of this question. 

Would you support an alternative option to "Live Free or Die" on New Hampshire license plates? Leave a comment and have your say.