NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – He’s the bear who advocates for fire prevention. Now, Smokey Bear may get his own New Mexico license plate.
Five state lawmakers have introduced a bill, known as House Bill 363, that could put Smokey’s name and image onto a special plate, similar to the ones dedicated to causes or the state’s university.
The original Smokey was a burned bear cub rescued from the Capitan Mountains in 1950.
The ad campaign took off quickly with Smokey’s iconic phrase: “Only you can prevent forest fires.”
The specialty plates would cost $50 with a $40 yearly renewal fee.
The bill got unanimous support from the House Taxation Committee this morning.
If the bill is approved, the Taxation and Revenue Department would need to seek a long-term license from the USDA to use Smokey’s likeness
