The Washington apple plate is one step closer to reality.  On Thursday, the Senate voted 46-1 to approved legislation creating the specialty plate commemorating Washington's top commodity.

 

“This bill [Senate Bill 6032] will allow vehicle owners to show their pride in Washington’s iconic apples, bring more awareness to our important apple industry and help raise money for local scholarships,” said sponsor Senator Brad Hawkins of North Central Washington. “The Washington Apple Commission and Washington Apple Education Foundation do great work, so I am excited to partner with them on this legislation. I’m pleased that so many of my Senate colleagues have supported this bill either by co-sponsoring it or voting for it today. I look forward to working with the House in hopes this bill will be approved there as well.”

 

If approved by the House, the plate would provide funds for the Washington Apple Education Foundation to help young people connected to the tree fruit industry continue their education.

 

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“We are excited for the opportunities the Washington apple specialty license plate may create for central Washington college-bound students,” said Jennifer Witherbee, executive director of the Washington Apple Education Foundation. “For 25 years the tree fruit industry has demonstrated its commitment to industry families through support of the Washington Apple Education Foundation. If passed, this is one more route industry members and supporters can pursue to proudly share their allegiance to the apple industry and their desire to make a difference through education.”

 

A $40 fee would be charged for an initial Washington apple special license plate, and $30 for an annual renewal.  The license plate proposal comes during WAEF's 25th anniversary.

 

“The recognition of the Washington apple industry through this specialty plate, combined with the sponsorship support to the Washington Apple Education Foundation, is a win-win for our apple growers and young aspiring students pursuing higher education. I can think of no worthier cause than to support purchasing a Washington apple license plate,” said Washington Apple Commission President Todd Fryhover.

 

 

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