Byrne v. Rutledge

DEBRA ANN LIVINGSTON, Circuit Judge:

Vermont, like many states, allows the owners of motor vehicles to request a “special number” license plate — more commonly known as a “vanity” plate — that contains a short message selected by the registrant rather than the generic combinations of letters and digits that the state Department of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”) would otherwise assign. While Vermont allows residents to select combinations that convey messages on a variety of topics, including statements of personal philosophy and taste, inspirational messages, and statements of affiliation with or…