License plates: obstruction or alteration.

Assembly Member Stefani's legislation expands California's prohibitions on license plate obstruction devices to address emerging technologies that impair electronic recognition systems. The measure adds shades and tints to the list of prohibited items that interfere with license plate readings by law enforcement equipment, toll facility sensors, and emissions testing devices.

The bill increases penalties for manufacturing or selling license plate obstruction devices in California from $250 to $1,000 per item, while maintaining existing $250 fines for operating vehicles with such devices or altering license plate reflective coatings. Current exemptions remain in place for weather protection covers on parked vehicles and security covers that don't obstruct registration tabs or plate numbers.

For vehicles transporting persons with disabilities, the legislation preserves accommodations allowing wheelchair lifts and carriers that may partially block license plate visibility. These vehicles must display a special department-issued decal with the license plate number in the rear window and either have disability license plates or a distinguishing placard for the wheelchair user.