New York Governor Intervenes to Reinstate Grandfather’s ‘PB4WEGO’ Vanity Plate
ALBANY, N.Y. — In a rare move that combined humor with a defense of free expression, New York Governor Kathy Hochul personally intervened to restore a Long Island grandfather’s customized license plate reading “PB4WEGO.” The plate, which Seth Bykofsky admits stands for “pee before we go,” had been flagged by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for violating regulations that prohibit vanity plates containing messages deemed “derogatory, contemptuous, degrading, disrespectful or inflammatory.”
Bykofsky, a proud grandfather, received a letter from the DMV in January informing him that his personalized plate was in violation of these rules. However, he argued that the phrase was neither offensive nor disrespectful, noting on social media that the worst reaction from his family was a “gentle roll of the eyes.” He even joked about launching a gubernatorial campaign on the platform “A P On Every Plate,” warning that if the state could target his plate, it could target anyone’s.
The dispute quickly gained traction online and eventually caught the attention of Governor Hochul. In a video posted to social media, Hochul shared a phone conversation with Bykofsky in which she praised the plate as “an important lesson” and pledged to have it reinstated. “I think everybody should be reminded to pee before you go,” Hochul said, adding that as a mother and grandmother, she fully supported the message.
The governor’s involvement led to a swift resolution, with the DMV reversing its decision and restoring Bykofsky’s plate. In response, Bykofsky announced he was suspending his mock campaign for governor, expressing gratitude to supporters who championed both the “silly and absurd” nature of the case and the broader principle of First Amendment rights.
The New York DMV’s regulations on vanity plates are designed to prevent messages that could be interpreted as offensive or inflammatory, a policy echoed by many state motor vehicle agencies nationwide. However, the subjective nature of such guidelines often leads to debates over what constitutes inappropriate content. The intervention by a sitting governor in this case highlights the delicate balance between regulatory oversight and individual expression.
This episode also underscores the role of public officials in responding to constituents’ concerns, especially when issues touch on personal freedoms. Governor Hochul’s swift action was praised by advocates for free speech and those who saw the plate as a lighthearted reminder of everyday life.
For more information on New York State’s license plate regulations, visit the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles website. The governor’s office frequently addresses constituent issues, as detailed on the Governor of New York official site. Discussions about free speech protections can be explored through resources provided by the American Civil Liberties Union, which often weighs in on similar cases nationwide. Additionally, the California DMV provides an example of how other states regulate vanity plates, offering context to New York’s policies.
As for Bykofsky, his “PB4WEGO” plate will now continue to serve as a humorous yet poignant reminder to drivers across Long Island and beyond, thanks to a governor who recognized the value of a little levity and free expression on the road.
Leave a Reply