WA License Plates Require Replacement Every Seven Years

It appears that in 1997, a new law was passed requiring us to replace our license plates every 7 years to the tune of $24. If we opt to keep our current plates, we have to pay an additional $20. This is in addition to the cost of our tabs.

I did some research an found the following:
'State law passed in 1997 (RCW 46.16.233) requires periodic license plate replacement. 2003 Law allows you the option to keep the same plate number for an additional $20.00 fee.'
Link: http://tinyurl.com/2hkl85

'There are two reasons behind the replacement plate law, RCW 46.16.233, which was passed in 1997 and initiated in November of 2000:
  1. To have a standard and consistent background which improves identification of all Washington vehicles.
  2. The seven-year cycle was selected by the Department of Licensing after reviewing the guarantee by the manufacturer of the reflective sheeting material, which is used on Washington state license plates. Five other states have also adopted a seven-year replacement program cycle.'
Link: http://tinyurl.com/2z9hde