The California Department of Motor Vehicles told Isis Wharton on Friday she must surrender her personalized license plate reading “IAMISIS” because it could be interpreted as supporting the Islamic State terrorist group. Wharton, named after the Egyptian goddess Isis, purchased the $50 plate in 2022 and has renewed it annually. “I’m proud of my name. I’m proud that it’s on my car. I feel like, driving around, it looks cool,” she said. The DMV cited Section 206 of California Code of Regulations, which allows rejection of plates associated with illegal or violent activities. The agency’s letter stated “Regardless of your intention, the configuration ‘IAMISIS’ can be construed as ‘I am Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).'” McGeorge School of Law professor Leslie Jacobs said the plate is protected under First Amendment free speech rights. Wharton can request a hearing to appeal the decision. (Story URL)
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