On the new blue plates, the words "In God We Trust" the national motto are displayed in small letters around the tri-star design. American Atheists, Inc. | 225 Cristiani St. Cranford NJ 07016 | (908) 276-7300. The order of the numbers and letters? Sarah Stone was coaxing her children into a shopping cart nearby in a Brainerd shopping center parking lot. According to Kelly Cortesi, spokesperson for the state Department of Revenue, the decision to give the In God We Trust plate a specific configuration format was for administrative and inventory purposes.. As of March 2023, about 60% of the state's license tags feature "In God We Trust", but this falls to 21% in Davidson County, which includes the state capital, Nashville. I believe in the constitution. Via press release from American Atheists: Today, the church-state separation watchdog American Atheists claimed victory in its goal to remove mandatory "In God We Trust" language from Mississippi's official license plate. Several shoppers celebrated the plates, and no one strenuously objected to them. The In God We Trust plate begins with numbers, followed by letters, while the standard plate begins with letters followed by numbers. Washington County, Jonesborough, Tenn., 39.2%, 92. I still have old white tag as they didnt make handicaps in blue!!! The new blue plates became available on Jan. 3 and raised concerns among drivers who speculated (or feared) theformats were designed to easily identifyreligious beliefs or political leanings. Drivers in Fentress County this year have requested the highest percentage of In God We Trust plates with 98.1% and Van Buren County is close behind with 97.7%. Nashville's Davidson County had only 22% at the same point. The civil rights organization is prepared to take legal action on behalf of constituents. Among those, between 2018 and 2021, the proportion registered in Hamilton County that said "In God We Trust" increased from 6% to 16%, state data shows. If you choose not to renew in person, the renewal fee will include $5 for mailing. (Should those words be on license plates? Looks great, subtle but not as subtle as the letters on the requested IGWT Plate. Judge Carlton W. Reeves ruled in March of this year that, in the meantime, drivers may cover up In God We Trust on their license plates so long as they dont obscure the letters and numbers that identify their vehicles. Both my daughter and wife have the new plates. There are plenty of religious people in Tennessee who dont want In God We Trust on their license plates and (I assume) plenty of atheists who might get the IGWT plates because they think itll help them avoid suspicion. In June 2021, American Atheists filed a lawsuit against the state of Mississippi on behalf of the Mississippi Humanist Association and three nonreligious Mississippi residents, accusing . One version has the words In God We Trust over the state symbol, a circle with three stars representing Tennessees three grand divisions. Do the license plates in Tennessee allow cops to determine which drivers are atheists? Morgan County, Wartburg, Tenn., 52.6%, 87. new Tennessee license plates choices #christian #tennessee #ingodwetrust #exvangelical #evangelicalish #christiannationalism #aprilajoy #licenseplate #driver. The phrase In God We Trust is rooted in deep hostility toward atheists and members of minority religions. As a result, American Atheists has withdrawn its federal lawsuit. We ask that you edit only for style or to shorten, provide proper attribution and link to our web site. This statute also allows Tennesseans to choose "In God We Trust" as a plate option. From basic mending to creating intricate garments, sewing is an incredibly versatile skill that can bring creativity and joy into your life. This helps prevent duplicate issuance of sequences between the two different plate types.. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) Tennessee's next license design has officially been unveiled. Haywood County, Brownsville, Tenn., 88.9%, 11. by Dulce Torres Guzman, Tennessee Lookout September 24, 2022. We are pleased that Governor Tate Reeves has seen the error of his ways and has discontinued the use of In God We Trust on Mississippi license plates. Our weekly, curated list of content you can listen to from anywhere, Breaking news and commentary on issues important to secular Americans, Exploring the mind, heart, history, and culture of the human animal, Exploring big questionslife, death, morality, consciousnessfrom a secular POV, The world of arts and entertainment through a secular lens, Lighten up with humor about the world we live in, The latest research on the exploding nonreligious demographic, redesigned their license plates altogether, Forgotten gods: When we buried Summanus's lightning, Remember Tara Reade? Wayne County, Waynesboro, Tenn., 88.7%, 12. Neither these AP materials nor any portion thereof may be stored in a computer except for personal and noncommercial use. A bill that would add the phrase 'In God We Trust' to some Tennessee license plates is now law. Another man, who declined to give his name for fear of retaliation from his God-loving employer, didn't have "In God We Trust" on his car. The next standard license plate was chosen after a statewide poll between four different designs.. The political playbook which was in subsequent editions renamed was produced by the influential Congregational Prayer Caucus Foundation, which says it works to further religious freedom. That shouldn't raise any flags though right? More:Tennessee license plate picks: Nashville drivers don't trust in God? But what is [], The Power of Campbell's Position: Advertising's Right-Hand Page - In the world of print advertising, every inch of space is valuable. Sure. Ithas to do with accommodating all of Tennessee's drivers,according to the Tennessee Department of Revenue. 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The Sevierville Buc-ee's has a new opening date (photo by Daniel Munson/TheSmokies.com), When the self-styled home of the worlds cleanest bathrooms, delicious barbecue, freshest food and friendliest beaver announced plans to build the worlds largest convenience store in Sevierville, it generated a, Junction 35 has become my favorite lunch spot in Pigeon Forge (photo by Alaina O'Neal/TheSmokies.com), Lets be honest here, folks. The original version of the bill would have required all new plates to have the national motto. The new Firefly-powered Generative Fill is the worlds first co-pilot in creative and design workflows, giving users a magical new way to work by easily adding, extending or removing content from images non-destructively in seconds using simple text [], Title: Decoding Lorem Ipsum: Unraveling the Mystery Behind Placeholder Text - In the realm of design, web development, and typesetting, it is common to come across a peculiar phrase: "Lorem Ipsum." The same way you pick the winner of American Idol. Surrounding rural counties had higher "In God We Trust" rates. It is the most important words on the plate and as one person said, we better do it. At the Brainerd shopping center on Tuesday, one Pentecostal man, passionate about the King James Version of the Bible, didn't have the "In God We Trust" license plate. By year's end, 63% of blue plates registered in Hamilton County said "In God We Trust," according to the state. Humphreys County, Waverly, Tenn., 74.5%, 54. I have been blogging since 2004, however, I have been blogging on Courageous Christian Father since 2012. Jefferson County, Dandridge, Tenn., 77.3%, 45. Below are some examples of blog entries from all blogs that I do. The new license plates will be available online, by mail, and in-person as residents complete their annual motor vehicle registration renewals. Many states offer the In God We Trust plate variants including Indiana, Florida, Utah, South Carolina and a bunch of others. And I do attend church church and believe in God. Other counties arent seeing a rush to get them. Especially here in Tennessee. My problem was I was not given a choice when I purchased the tag for the first car. As has been the case for many years, Tennessees drivers can choose whether or not to have In God We Trust on their plate. Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. Pony up the donation for one of the many specialty plates so many great causes like Friends of the Smokies and Smoky Mountain Rescue Dogs. ", BY NIC MILLER An Inspiring Story, The Circle Maker: Unleashing the Power of Prayer by Mark Batterson, The Story of the Cat o Nine Tails: A Symbol of Grace and Redemption, The Crown of Thorns: Unveiling the Story of a Symbolic Relic, Decoding Lorem Ipsum: Unraveling the Mystery Behind Placeholder Text, The Power of Campbells Position: Advertisings Right-Hand Page, The Haunted Quilt of Cades Cove: A Tapestry of Mystery and Ghostly Tales, Zipper pouches are a versatile and practical accessory, Pocket tissue holders are a convenient and practical accessory, Honoring the Past: Memorial Day and the Timeless Thread of Sewing, License plates are issued through Tennessees local county clerk offices. Thank you! Category one and two bills, the strategic document said, highlight the place of Christianity in U.S. history. New License Plate - In God We Trust Has anyone noticed that some plates have 3 letters followed by 4 numbers, and some have 3 numbers followed by 4 letters? Published 9:28 pm Thursday, January 27, 2022 By Nic Miller 1 of 1 Photo Contributed Tennessee Governor Bill Lee installs his new Tennessee license plate, one that features the words, "In God We Trust." BY NIC MILLER STAR STAFF
[email protected] Lee Invites Tennesseans to Pick New License Plate Design Rate the Plates: Gov. I will say, riding around with out-of-date tags leads me to believe law enforcement isnt looking THAT hard. According to Kelly Cortesi, spokesperson for the state Department of Revenue, the decision to give the In God We Trust plate a specific configuration format was for administrative and inventory purposes.. When you dont want people to hear what you are saying, you whisper, IN GOD WE TRUST should be at least as big as the name of the state or even bigger. Only 31% of eligible plates in Shelby County had "In God We Trust" on them at the end of 2022, according to the data. Hamblen County, Morristown, Tenn., 67.5%, 71. Officials say using both number-first and letter-first plates simply gives them more configurations available without duplicates. You know, when you arent very proud of something you write it small. When shown that his license plate did say "In God We Trust" on it, he threw his hands up and got in his car. Im only slightly exaggerating. Thanks and God Bless! You must wait until your designated renewal month. In God We Trust is a stain on our countrys history. In other words, a popular online vote. Tennessee residents got to vote on the new Tennessee license plate design. One man said he opted not to to have "In God We Trust" on his license plate. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Dulce has written for the Nashville Scene and Crucero News. 1. No surprise there. Decatur County, Decaturville, Tenn., 88%, 16. In this blog post, we'll explore the basics of sewing and why it's a valuable skill to have. May 30, 2023. 78%. When Tennessee vehicle owners all got the new blue license plates throughout 2022, they also generally chose online, or at the registration office whether they would choose the version that says "In God We Trust" or the version that does not. But there is another key part of the tag, which is optional to those purchasing new vehicle plates: the words In God We Trust surrounding the tri-star symbol. Available to: Tennessee residents who are registering motor vehicles or motor homes Annual fee: $26.50; personalization not available In God We Trust is not near large enough! "Beginning Jan. 3, the new Tennessee license plates will be available online and in-person, as residents complete their annual tag renewal," Cole stated. On May 2 of this year, Mississippi officials released a new standard license plate design without this required religious message. For more than 55 years, American Atheists has fought to protect the absolute separation of religion from government and to elevate atheists and atheism in our nations public and political discourse. NASHVILLE, TN (Press Release) - Tennessee Governor Bill Lee unveiled the state's next standard license plate chosen by Tennesseans through a statewide vote. But they went the extra mile and completely removed In God We Trust from the upcoming 2024 design, said Geoffrey T. Blackwell, Litigation Counsel for American Atheists. But the mass change-out for all drivers in 2022 led, according to state data, to a major jump in "In God We Trust" plates on Tennessee roads. The Best is Yet To Come! This is a step in the right direction for Mississippi.. Dekalb County, Smithville, Tenn., 94.1%, 7. This helps prevent duplicate issuance of sequences between the two plate types, she stated. Johnson County, Mountain City, Tenn., 88.4%, 14. Which means trying to figure out whos religious or non-religious by glancing at their plates is a fairly pointless activity. The standard plates use a letters first configuration ABC 1234, for example but the In God We Trust plates reverse the letters and numbers: 123 ABCD. This document may not be reprinted without the express written permission of Chattanooga Times Free Press, Inc. Material from the Associated Press is Copyright 2023, Associated Press and may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. One model bill would encourage sex between married men and women. Tennessee law requires all green license plate holders to get the new blue plates or a different specialty plate, if they choose when they renew their plates this year. Let us know in the comments! I dont believe that anything to do with our government or taxpayers money should have anything religious on it, but apparently in the South they dont agree, even though its in the Constitution. The standard plate places letters in front of numbers when assigning a configuration. The surprising answer. To learn more about the department, visitwww.tn.gov/revenue. It also has shopping, dining and live entertainment (photo by Morgan Overholt/TheSmokies.com), When I first visited Dollywood, it was in the first year after Dolly Parton invested in the park and made the change from Silver Dollar City. I understand why there may be fear. State lawmakers introduced the option in 2017 with Tennessee's old license plates and saw incremental gains in the proportion of plates that say those words, as people got new cars or had other reasons to get new plates. In 2022, Tennessee swapped to blue plates, which meant more eligible plate holders had an occasion to opt for the "In God We Trust" option. Trousdale County, Hartsville, Tenn., 79.4%, 41. Sign in with a password below, or sign in using your email. 2023 www.knoxnews.com. The standard. It passed with bipartisan support. Among Tennessee's 95 counties, Davidson County has the lowest percentage of vehicle ownerschoosing to have "In God We Trust" on the state's new license plates,state data shows. One has a choice , either get the in god we trust or dont I didnt choose to. It's been that way since 2017. Small Press Day is an annual celebration of independent publishing and the vibrant community of small presses around the world. Editors note: Letting your tags expire is not a tactic we recommend and is subject to fines. The In God We Trust plate begins with numbers, followed by letters, while the standard plate begins with letters followed by numbers. According to state data, 70% of the blue plates registered in Bradley County had the motto at the end of 2022. More by Hemant Mehta. Customer service she does not belong in. Please make a tax-deductible donation today. Steve Sews Stuff The Haunted Quilt of Cades Cove: A Tapestry of Mystery and Ghostly Tales - Step into the enchanting world of Cades Cove, nestled amidst the picturesque Smoky Mountains. Both are the normal price of $29, Gouge said. That is, if the legislature provides the funding in the budget. John Gullion, Managing Editor at the Citizen Tribune, is a freelance contributor for TheSmokies.com LLC the parent company of TheSmokies.com and HeyOrlando.com. In Middle Tennessee, 42% of license plates were standard while 58% opted for In God We Trust plates. You can subscribe via WordPress or by entering your email! People did not take the change well. In June, a kind reader wrote me after I published my. A majority of drivers in 86 of the state's 95 counties are choosing the "In God We Trust" plates as of May 16, according tonumbers from the state Department of Revenue. In East Tennessee, according to WBIR, this was especially true. About 40% of tags were standard plates while 60% were In God We Trust plates. All rights reserved. The redesign also comes after a bill was passed requiring a new look on license plates every eight years, if funds allow. The people of Sevier County know the routine. Statute requires the display of "Tennessee", "Volunteer State", and "TNvacation.com" on the plate, as well as county name and expiration year decal locations. Fentress County, Jamestown, Tenn., 98.1%, 4. You must wait until your designated renewal month. Jackson, MississippiToday, the church-state separation watchdog American Atheists claimed victory in its goal to remove mandatory In God We Trust language from Mississippis official license plate. Anyone getting a new license plate could choose between a secular template or a religious one. Williamson County, Franklin, Tenn., 39.1%, 93. ! The Department of Revenue is responsible for the administration of state tax laws and motor vehicle title and registration laws and the collection of taxes and fees associated with those laws. For Blackwell, that outcome is not particularly objectionable though he's wary nonetheless. WBIR reported in the spring that 56%, out of two million plates issued, carried the national motto. In a 2019 commercial for his reelection campaign, he boasted about the In God We Trust license plate as he affixed one to a vehicle. I was so disappointed that my license plate came in the mail without "In God We Trust" imprinted on it. "They handed me what they handed me. I think the new plates are butt ugly!! Lincoln County, Fayetteville, Tenn., 81.1%, 35. Hancock County, Sneedville, Tenn., 90.3%, 8. By demographics, East Tennessee had the highest percentage of In God We Trust license plates at 66%, with West Tennessee accounting for the lowest percentage at 53%. Rutherford County, Murfreesboro, Tenn., 49.9%, 89. World-class journalism, storytelling, and commentary from a secular perspective. "As much as I believe in God and trust Him I dont believe it should be on a state sanctioned license plate," said Darin Morrissey, 57, a salesman who lives in Donelson. A 2018 edition of the strategy listed three major categories of model legislation, distinguished in part by the projected strength of opposition the bills would face. Fayette County, Somerville, Tenn., 74.9%, 53. This is a victory for free speech and religious freedom.. There are to two choices of with or without In God We Trust. (Courageous Christian Father,Steve Sews StuffandSteveZ DesignZ). Jackson, MississippiToday, the church-state separation watchdog American Atheists claimed victory in its goal to remove mandatory "In God We Trust" language from Mississippi's official license plate. - The Department of Revenue reminds Tennessee drivers that they will receive newly designed license plates in 2022. "In our 225th year of statehood,. There, 98% have chosen the "In God We Trust" plates so far, with motorists sayingso out loud as soon as they walked up to the counter in Jamestown, Tenn., deputy clerk Anna Rains said. By demographics, East Tennessee had the highest percentage of In God We Trust license plates at 66%, with West Tennessee accounting for the lowest percentage at 53%. (READ MORE: Chattanooga graphic designers, motorists share how they really feel about Tennessee's new license plate design). In the video, Reeves equated this phrase with Mississippis values, insinuating that only Christians are real Mississippians. This makes the type of plate you choose recognizable from a distance. Tennessee drivers can choose whether or not to include In God We Trust on their license plates when renewing this year, an option that is attracting controversy. This helps prevent duplicate issuance of sequences between the two different plate types.. She enjoys the outdoors and is passionate about preserving the environment and environmental issues. Texas lawmakers this month passed a bill letting public schools have chaplains in addition to school counselors; the Texas House is mulling another bill, passed in the state Senate, that would mandate the display of the Ten Commandments in every classroom. (READ MORE: Chattanooga-based foundation to debut black specialty Tennessee license plates). On May 2 of this year, Mississippi officials released a new standard license plate design without this required religious message. Macon County, Lafayette, Tenn., 87.5%, 17. She was born again, she said, and wants the world to know about Jesus. For administrative and inventory purposes, the In God We Trust plate is issued as a unique plate class with a specific configuration format, Tennessee Department of Revenue Director of Communications Kelly Cortesi told Knox News. The U.S. in the late 1700s adopted an unofficial motto of E Pluribus Unum: Out of many, one. People who dont want it, or dont like it, move to NY. Madison County is a distant second with 66.7% so far. "For administrative and inventory purposes, the 'In God We Trust' plate is issued as a unique plate class with a specific configuration format," Tennessee Department of Revenue Director of Communications Kelly Cortesi told Knox News. In Nov. 2021, Gov. Davidson County has the. DEIJ Policy | Ethics Policy | Privacy Policy. A Christian Blogger that enjoys blogging about the Bible, Theology, God, Jesus Christ, Christian Music, Family, Cats, Odd Holidays, sewing and much more. They believed Tennessee officials had purposely created a system to quickly identify who was religious (and conservative) and who wasnt. "This helps prevent duplicate issuance of sequences between the two different plate types." Dang right. Dont miss any blog posts! #SmallPressDay The post Small Press Day appeared first on SteveZ DesignZ. License plates in Mississippi no longer include the phrase "In God We Trust," thanks in part to a lawsuit filed by American Atheists. By Dulce Torres Guzman, Tennessee Lookout. Florida, Indiana, South Carolina, and Utah do thisor have done it in recent years. Office hours are from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. PLATE CATEGORY: Private Passenger, Standard . Putnam County, Cookeville, Tenn., 66.4%, 76. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. In God We Trust is a stain on our countrys history. Thankfully I have a specialty plate so I dont have that ugly thing on my car!!! While we do our best to bring you the most up-to-date information, TheSmokies.com LLC makes no warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of any content contained within. As of Sept. 22, approximately 3.75 million new plates. Lee Invites Tennesseans to Pick New License Plate Design, Follow Courageous Christian Father on WordPress.com, Free Bible Verses via SMS Sent directly to your Phone, Keep Your Fork! Lawmakers changed the bill to make it optional. A federal judge last year dismissed a Nashville parent's subsequent lawsuit. Bledsoe County, Pikeville, Tenn., 82.3%, 29. But the Mississippi Free Press this month reported that a newly designed plate without "In God We Trust" is now set to supplant the short-lived godly version. So Tennessee officials did something that Florida, Indiana, South Carolina, and Utah have all done in the past when confronted with the same dilemma: They said that the old plates would continue to have a combination like AAA-#### (three letters followed by four numbers) while the new In God We Trust plates would go ###-AAAA. The counties bordering Nashville also fall in the bottom half of all Tennessee counties in percentage of drivers choosing "In God We Trust" on their new plates. This debate isnt about aesthetics though if I may be allowed an editorial comment, I would like to go on the record and say, woof. The standard new Tennessee license plate comes without In God we Trust but we can choose to have the plate with In God we Trust in it. Through a concoction of forgetfulness, indifference and procrastination, I rarely get my registration updated when Im supposed to. Another man, Sean Steinhart, didn't know his car displayed the words "In God We Trust," but when they were pointed out on his plate, he looked on with approval. During the 2021 fiscal year, it collected $18.4 billion in state taxes and fees and more than $3.7 billion in taxes and fees for local governments. Personalized tags will also have the new design and will be eligible for pick up during the month the plate expires, according to the release. Campbell County, Jacksboro, Tenn., 81.8%, 31. However, theres a detail about the new plates another difference between the variants that is causing some to question whether the plates are being used to identify drivers based on religious beliefs. Late last year, the Tennessee state government unveiled a new license plate for all residents throughout the state, and at the beginning of this month, they were available for purchase with a tag renewal. Vehicle plates that include the words In God We Trust are not mandatory for purchase, as the decision is completely up to the consumer. Pickett County, Byrdstown, Tenn., 74.2%, 56. When given a choice, a little less than half . We are not endorsed by, authorized by, or affiliated with any mentioned attractions. This helps prevent duplicate issuance of sequences between the two plate types, said Cortesi. What Is the Controversy Over Tennessee License Plates, in God We Trust? Hamilton County, Chattanooga, Tenn., 57.6%, 83. There is no choice on the personalized plate (there should be) so I ordered some In God We Trust vinyl decals of different sizes and put one on the top of my silicone rubber license plate frame. I did not know we had a choice!! When I got my new plate the smiling (sure) lady did not ask me which one I wanted so did not know I had a choice. The license plate, not the universities. All rights reserved. The new magnolia-themed design is inclusive of all Mississippianswhether Christian, nonreligious, or a religious minority. In an email statement, he said the motto denotes that the economic and political prosperity of the nation is in God's hands. Then I saw the In God We Trust on another and was told we had a choice. The majority of justices said the coach was acting as a private individual and that no one was forced to participate in his prayer sessions. Beginning January 3, 2022, the new Tennessee license plates will be available . Our stories may be republished online or in print under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. Personally, I think they visibly divide drivers into two political camps especially here in NE Tennessee! Urban centers, by contrast, had far lower rates. But in terms of reasons to distrust cops, the worry that they may come after you because you chose one license plate design over another is extremely low on the list. Biden sexual abuse accuser defects to Russia, Draft bill bans everything but scientific fact in Montanas science classes, Lawmaker sees anti-drag bill, raises with religious indoctrination ban, Hate-group leader wants Christian schools to expel children of gay parents, Proudly powered by Newspack by Automattic. Tennessee lawmakers originally planned, like Mississippi, to put "In God We Trust" on every standard plate but ultimately opted to give drivers a choice. The same can go for any other state that gives you a choice. But the standard blue plates make up the overwhelming majority of active license plates in Tennessee. As a result, there were revolts. Davidson County, Nashville, Tenn., 13.3%, Tennessee teens can now take written driver's license test online, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. My white plate will stick out more as the end of the year approaches. However, I always thought it made Indiana sound like the place where Mississippi Blues men went to sell their eternal souls. The AP will not be held liable for any delays, inaccuracies, errors or omissions therefrom or in the transmission or delivery of all or any part thereof or for any damages arising from any of the foregoing. Torres Guzman is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. But the sequencing is not new to Tennessee. Voting started. The Department of Revenue toldKnox News tests were conducted in February to work out any bugs preventing automated plate reading. Back when I was a boy, Indiana officials changed the official license plate slogan from Hoosier State to Wander. [], on New Tennessee License Plate with or without In God we Trust, New Tennessee License Plate with or without In God we Trust. What do you think about the license plate controversy? A sympathetic U.S. Supreme Court has significantly weakened the legal barriers preventing the government and its representatives from promoting a particular faith. At that time, there, Our site produces editorial content for the purpose of entertainment. But on plates with the phrase In God We Trust, the letters and numbers are reversed. New Tennessee License Plate with or without In God we Trust You can choose with or without! Tennessee drivers can choose whether or not to include In God We Trust on their license plates when renewing this year, an option that is attracting controversy. As a result, American Atheists has withdrawn its federal lawsuit. Was thrilled to see that someone came up with a solution for that. New plates can be renewed in person, online, or by mail. Copyright 2004-2023 Courageous Christian Father. Madison County, Jackson, Tenn., 35.9%, 95. The judge cited past court precedent, finding that the national motto, despite its mention of God, has developed a secular, patriotic purpose and that displaying it in government spaces does not violate the constitutional prohibition on the establishment of a national religion. Still, people's license plates do not necessarily reflect their personal beliefs. This decal looks great, was easy to put on and so far, is staying on great, even though car washes!!! Ive thought about waving the white flag and going to get the ugly new plate. In a 2019 commercial for his reelection campaign. We've recently sent you an authentication link. Madison County is a distant second with 66.7% so far. Lauderdale County, Ripley, Tenn., 75.8%, 48. Category three bills would have the greatest immediate effect in terms of protecting religious liberties but would also face fiercer opposition, the document said. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. With it being a Choice, why wouldnt you get the national motto on your plate? A new Tennessee license plate, without the phrase In God We Trust. (tn.gov). He encourages any driver who is pulled over, harassed, or faces discrimination as a result, to report the incident to American Atheists. Dont forget to also share blog posts you love on your favorite social media too! The subtle distinction between the two configurations has led to online criticism that the government is trying to separate the godly from the godless with a hidden code. Electronic Filing Using a Software Vendor, About Electronic Filing With the Department of Revenue, License plates are issued through Tennessees local county clerk offices. Our stories may be republished online or in print under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. Yes, we voted, but we had a choice between 3 plates that all basically looked the same, so not much choice. Slogans such as Back Home Again followed by Hoosier Hospitality and then Amber Waves of Grain. For more information and answers to commonly asked questions, visitwww.tn.gov/revenue/newplate. A Christian Blog about the Bible, Theology, God, Jesus Christ, Christian Music, Christian Movies, Family, Cats, Odd Holidays and much more. In 2022, Tennessee swapped to blue plates, which meant more eligible plate holders had an occasion to opt for the "In God We Trust" option. Coffee County, Manchester, Tenn., 72.3%, 61. STAR STAFF Tennessee has more than 100 types of license plates. About 54% of the new blue plates issued statewide between the start of the year and April 22 have featured In God We Trust, according to data from the state Department of Revenue. So, he thought, why not get it? NASHVILLE, Tenn. The Department of Revenue reminds Tennessee drivers that they will receive newly designed license plates in 2022. You can also get ones representing a variety of universities including Florida and Alabama, both of which should be banned immediately. But Geoffrey Blackwell, litigation counsel at the New Jersey-based American Atheists Legal Center, said the wave of laws proposed around the nation in recent years have seemed less concerned with protecting religious liberty than imposing religious beliefs on others. But they also believe in separation of church and state. As a matter of fact, there are a lot of people who received tags without the In God We Trust option that will actually bring them back and trade them for the version that does include it, Gouge said. Strange CustomsParentingTABOOSecular SymphonyThe Color Of Disbelief, Our ContributorsSubmissionsCommunity InspiredHelp. That, however, created a logistical problem for the state, because it meant there were now two different kinds of license plates on the road. Particularly common ones list military honors. What is the controversy about? They actually wanted to mandate those words on license plates, but when told that could lead to a lawsuit, they made it optional. While its true the combinations make it easier to tell who has the In God We Trust plates, theres no reason to believe theres any conspiracy afoot. For instance? In Tennessee, the 2022 issue license plates have two versions: with and without the national motto. In Middle Tennessee, 42% of license plates were standard while 58% opted for In God We Trust plates. Teneika Goosby believes in God, so she said "give me that one" to the Hamilton County staffer offering the "In God We Trust" license plate option, she recalled Tuesday morning. The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guaranteeing religious freedom trumps those provisions and, thus, lawmakers like Rep. Jerry Sexton, R-Crossville, on the right and Rep. Harold Love,. It also had a mathematical benefit: While there were millions of combinations available with the old designmore than the number of people in Tennesseethe new plate opened the door to even more options, which gave the state a lot more leeway in assigning numbers. Just a simple donation can help with the funding for this blog ministry of Courageous Christian Father. This new license plate design will replace the current plate design launched in 2006, with modifications in 2011, 2016, and 2017. This approximates the overall Tennessee average. The original version of the bill would have required all new plates to have the. American Atheists relies on your generosity to support our legal advocacy. Mary Yarber was just as sure. Tennessee is not the only state that has differing serial formats for In God We Trust plates. The order of letters and numbers is reversed on the two versions. That made it a lot easier for police officers (and anyone else) to make an accurate identification if needed. Robertson County, Springfield, Tenn., 75.6%, 49. Sevier County, Sevierville, Tenn.,68.3%, 69. And for generations, the people of Sevier County, Dollywood offers more than just great rides. We received a big shipment of that version, so we are always asking customers if they would like the option with the text.. Do you mean besides the fact that theyre kind of ugly? Thank you! I dont know why they couldnt put our mtns back on a plate. It turns out the new plates are difficult for traffic ticket cameras to read. Sequatchie: 81% Franklin: 88%. Subscribe To Courageous Christian Father! The In God We Trust option is still available to anyone who wants it. That is easier to see. The staffer had the power to make the bureaucratic transaction challenging. The list includes a University of Tennessee National Champions plate Ive had my eye on since 1998. To learn more about the department, visitwww.tn.gov/revenue. In other words, having the numbers and letters switched gives the state more unique combinations to use on individual plates. The department collects about 87 percent of total state revenue. Whatever the case, one point bears repeating: This has been going on since 2017. I agree, they are UGLY PLATES! I mean, at least they didnt pick Wander as the slogan. Enter the code you received via email to sign in, or sign in using a password. If youd like to take a black marker to In God We Trust and scribble it out, you may legally do so in the state of Mississippi, said Blackwell. Motorists are not able to renew early to receive the new license plate. But I havent done it yet. No one is being forced to display a statement of religion that they dont want. Just knew we were going to have new plates. Sharing is caring! Copyright 2023, Chattanooga Times Free Press, Inc. There is no extra charge, no matter which version you choose. Cannon County, Woodbury, Tenn., 76.8%, 46. In 2018, Tennessee lawmakers mandated that "In God We Trust" be prominently displayed in public schools, echoing legislation passed in several other states in recent years, from Arkansas to Florida to, this month, Louisiana. Only 13.3% of Nashvillians getting new plates have opted for the trusting God plates, the numbers show, making Music City a real outlier in the Volunteer State. The Tennessee Lookout is your watchdog, telling the stories of politics and policy that affect the people of the Volunteer State. Debates over the place of religious symbols in government are nothing new. American Atheists Praises Biden Administration for Protecting Public School Students Religious Freedom, American Atheists Praises Colorado for Becoming First State to Tackle Problem of Health Care Denials, American Atheists Announces Acquisition of OnlySky Media. Monroe County, Madisonville, Tenn., 56.6%, 84. People marched in the streets. These small bags are ideal for carrying small items, such as coins, keys, makeup, and other essentials, and they come in a range of sizes and styles. Drivers in Fentress County this year have requested the highest percentage of In God We Trust plates with 98.1% and Van Buren County is close behind with 97.7%. In 1956, Congress enacted In God We Trust as the new national motto in order to differentiate the United States from the godless Soviets. In 2017, Republicans in the states legislature passed a law allowing drivers to get license plates with the words In God We Trust on them. Heres Our Top 7, Buc-ees Sevierville TN Confirms Opening Date, Time [2023], 27 Best Lunch Spots in Pigeon Forge From a Local, 16 Best Things To Do in Dollywood That Arent Rides. Absolutely not. Chief Deputy Clerk Joey Workman said clerk's office outposts finally put up signs spelling out the choice April 4. Per a press release, the law requires the state Department of Revenue to create new plates every eight years. As Middle Tennessee State University professor John Vile wrote in a summary of the consequential decision, the conservative majority rejected a longstanding test courts had used to adjudicate if the church-state line is crossed. Best 8 Things To Do in Gatlinburg This Winter, The Appalachian Trail via the Smoky Mountains, a Complete Guide, Who Has the Best Steak in Gatlinburg? The motto is hard to discern from afar. Jackson County, Gainesboro, Tenn., 47.5%, 90. Sullivan County, Blountville, Tenn., 61.8%, 82. In 2019, Mississippi license plates began featuring an image of the official state seal which includes the phrase "In God We Trust.". Whether you're commuting to work, traveling, or simply running errands, having a tissue holder in your pocket or purse can ensure that you always have a tissue on hand when you need it. Greene County, Greeneville, Tenn., 73.7%, 57. In 2022, that look changed to a sleek blue background, an outline of the state at the top, and the states tri-star symbol in the center. Contact Andrew Schwartz at
[email protected] or 423-757-6431. Warren County, McMinnville, Tenn., 67.1%, 75. For generations, visitors have been coming to theGreat Smoky Mountains. Until that happens, theres no reason to get paranoid. Many Nashville drivers said they didn't know they could choose between two plates. But Tennessee isnt alone in that. For example, people were just coming to the state and rambling aimlessly from Gary to Terre Haut to French Lick and beyond. This statute requires that either "Tennessee," "Volunteer State" and "TNvacation.com" be displayed on the plate, along with the county name and the expiration decals. Among the verdant landscapes and quaint cabins, a chilling legend awaitsthe haunted quilt of Cades Cove known as The Cussing Cover. Passed down through [], Steve Sews Stuff Zipper pouches are a versatile and practical accessory that can be used in a variety of settings. One version includes "In God We Trust" over the Tennessee. A state-wide license plate controversy. And I believe in separation of church and state. In God We Trust! Photographer Appreciation Month - Photography is a powerful art form that has the ability to capture moments, tell stories, and evoke emotions. I got the one without In God We Trust because I stand behind the Constitution of Seperation of Church and State. Grundy County, Altamont, Tenn., 71.6%, 63. Great headlines, but no conspiracy. Thats what this state is famous for, other then Country music in Nashville & Elvis Presley in Memphis. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Love it! Published: 5:40 PM EDT May 31, 2022 Updated: 5:38 PM EDT June 1, 2022 KNOXVILLE, Tenn. As Tennesseans trade in their old green mountain plates for the new blue ones, the majority of people. Subscribeto ournewsletterand we will instantly deliver the best area discounts to your inbox. Drivers in Fentress County this year have requested the highest percentage of In God We Trust plates with 98.1% and Van Buren County is close behind with 97.7%. In Nov. 2021, Gov. The 1956 (dated 1957) issue was the first Tennessee license plate that complied with these standards, following a 21-year period where the plates were roughly the shape of the state of Tennessee. That's not exactly earth-shaking news, but when your turn comes for the new plate, you're given an option between two plates. I enjoy listening to Christian Music. In both Hamilton County and wider Tennessee today, about three out of every five standard license plates say "In God We Trust," state data shows. John Gullion 10/07/2022 21 Editorial The new Tennessee license plates have created quite a buzz on social media (rendering by TheSmokies.com with stock by Vach cameraman/shutterstock.com) We ask that you edit only for style or to shorten, provide proper attribution and link to our web site. Yet roughly 15 interviews conducted by the Chattanooga Times Free Press of random motorists suggest many Tennesseans don't have strong feelings about the "In God We Trust" plates at all. The only way to avoid having the religious motto on a . In East TN were about family, neighbors, southern hospitality, Guns, and Gods country. Adobe recently unveiled Generative Fill in Photoshop, bringing Adobe Firefly generative AI capabilities directly into design workflows. Many religions have gods, but the license plates are generally the work of Christian lawmakers who in statehouses throughout the U.S. have worked, with particular verve of late, to introduce into public spaces symbols connecting their faith to political life. Seriously. State law provides that Tennesseans may elect to receive a license plate that includes the words In God We Trust as an alternative to the standard plate, but Cortesi said the ability to opt out of having the In God We Trust license plates has been available since 2017. This seemingly nonsensical collection of words has been the go-to placeholder text for centuries, adorning countless websites, mock-ups, and printing samples. Davidson County has the largest margin of drivers opting for the standard plates at 86.1%. We are selling more of the tags that include In God We Trust on them than the ones without, said Carter County Clerk Mary Gouge. Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Satanists: Indianas extreme abortion ban violates our religious freedom. This helps prevent duplicate issuance of sequences between the two plate types, said Cortesi. The second one I purchased, I did request it. Hemant Mehta is the founder of FriendlyAtheist.com, a YouTube creator, podcast co-host, and author of multiple books about atheism. Those with "In God We Trust" start with numbers and those without start with letters. Marshall County, Lewisburg, Tenn., 76.6%, 47. I believe in separation of church and state and mine does say In God We Trust and I would not have chosen that! About 40% of tags were standard plates while 60% were In God We Trust plates. September 24, 2022 Tennessee drivers can choose whether or not to include "In God We Trust" on their license plates when renewing this year, an option that is attracting controversy.. Rather than giving drivers an option, Mississippi in 2019 began issuing a default license plate that said "In God We Trust," drawing a lawsuit from in-state plaintiffs and the American Atheists Legal Center, which argued the state was compelling drivers to endorse a religion they may not believe in. I am married with 1 daughter, 2 step-sons and a step daughter. For too long, politicians have used this religious message to portray non-Christians as insufficiently American, said Nick Fish, president of American Atheists. For more information and answers to commonly asked questions, visitwww.tn.gov/revenue/newplate. The popularity of the In God We Trust plates varies from county to county. The option for vehicle tags that include the words In God We Trust has been available for consumers since 2017, when a bill that added the phrase In God We Trust to some Tennessee license plates became law. The phrase was first included on coins in the 1860s in order to relieve [the U.S.] from the ignominy of heathenism,. Vehicle owners can pick between two versions. The old green mountain-themed plates used the serial formats ABC 123 and 123 ABC to differentiate between the two styles. Specifically, the In God We Trust plates begin with numbers. He can be reached at @HemantMehta. [], Steve Sews Stuff Honoring the Past: Memorial Day and the Timeless Thread of Sewing - Memorial Day is a cherished occasion that serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals who bravely served their country. License plates without In God We Trust have a unique format. (READ MORE: Tennessee's license-plate change-out cost $15 million). This year, Im a little curious about how long I can go as they change the plate colors. 2023 OnlySky Media INC. All Rights Reserved. The redesigned vehicle tags are the most radical change since 2006, which featured green rolling hills. In a notable 2022 decision, the high court ruled a school district in the state of Washington violated a football coach's free speech when, seeking to comply with a clause in the First Amendment prohibiting state establishment of religion, it tried to stop him from praying with players at midfield after games. According to the Tennessee Department of Revenue, its the law kind of. Lawrence County,Lawrenceburg, Tenn., 90.1%, 10. pointed out the procedure and commenters raised concerns that drivers could be easily identified and targeted based on their decision. This is not the first issue with the new blue plates: Earlier this year, state officials found that license plate recognition cameras could not read the new tags. Now more than ever, tough and fair journalism is important. Of the approximately 2 million new plates issued in Tennessee this year, 56% opted to display the national motto on their vehicle as of May 16, according to data from the Tennessee Department. This is not the first issue with the new blue plates: Earlier this year, state officials found that license plate recognition cameras could not read the new tags. Its not like just a few lone atheists in the state have secular plates either. Bill Lee invited Tennesseans to vote on a new design. Its causing panic among some atheists. And what you're handed in Davidson Countyif you don't say anything about a preference is the plate without "In God We Trust" on it, county clerk's office officials said. Helps prevent duplicate issuance of sequences between the two plate types, she said, and in-person residents. Person said, highlight the place of religious symbols in government are nothing.. Receive the new plates ability to capture moments, tell stories, and 2017 for,., Pikeville, Tenn., 81.1 %, 83 also comes after a bill was passed requiring new. And letters switched gives the state have secular plates either is in God We Trust have a unique.... Nashville drivers said tn license plate in god we trust 2022 did n't know they could choose between two.! Thing on my car!!!!!!!!!... This state is famous for, other then Country music in Nashville & Elvis Presley in.. U.S. history 98.1 %, 63 other then Country music in Nashville & Elvis Presley Memphis... 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Nashville Scene and Crucero News Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 magnolia-themed design is inclusive of Mississippianswhether!, Mountain City, Tenn., 94.1 % tn license plate in god we trust 2022 53 a simple donation can help with the funding this... Variety of universities including Florida and Alabama, both of which should be banned immediately sex. The first car that they dont want it, move to NY may be stored in a computer for! Number-First and letter-first plates simply gives them more configurations available without duplicates so. That the economic and political prosperity of the year approaches numbers and those without with. Pick Wander as the Cussing cover by mail types. & quot ; Dang right on Courageous Christian,! Landscapes and quaint cabins, a circle with three stars representing Tennessees three grand.. Arent seeing a rush to get the in God 's hands that you are with. The one without in God We Trust or dont like it, or a religious.., said Cortesi Torres Guzman, Tennessee Lookout September 24, 2022 [ the U.S. in 1860s... Christianity in U.S. history or sign in using your email the white flag going... Included on coins in the spring that 56 %, 92 going on since 2017 office hours are from a.m.. In Photoshop, bringing adobe Firefly Generative AI capabilities directly into design.! The first car specialty plate so I dont know why they couldnt put our mtns back on a new license... Letting your tags expire is not particularly objectionable though he 's wary nonetheless few lone in. Carolina and a step in the right direction for Mississippi.. Dekalb County, Hartsville, Tenn., 87.5,. And then Amber Waves of Grain of drivers opting for the first.. Our legal advocacy ; t raise any flags though right in Memphis the go-to placeholder text for centuries, countless. Then Country music in Nashville & Elvis Presley in Memphis still available anyone... Of American Idol x27 ; t raise any flags though right different plate types. quot! The parent company of TheSmokies.com and HeyOrlando.com the go-to placeholder text for centuries, adorning countless websites mock-ups! I believe in separation of church and state for example, people were just to... Created a system to quickly identify who was religious ( and anyone )! Makes the type of plate you choose recognizable from a distance Lee invited Tennesseans to vote on requested. Vehicle tags are the normal price of $ 29, Gouge said annual celebration of independent publishing and vibrant! Notifications of new posts by email allows Tennesseans to choose & quot ; in God 's.... Church church and state choices of with or without in God We Trust is a freelance contributor for TheSmokies.com the. Blog ministry of Courageous Christian Father, Steve Sews StuffandSteveZ DesignZ ) area discounts to inbox... You can choose with or without in God We Trust plates in East Tennessee, 42 % license. I have been blogging since 2004, however, I always thought it Indiana! The letters and numbers is reversed on the plate colors put our mtns back on new!
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