Idaho State Journal
http://www.journalnet.com/articles/2004/02/23/news/local/news09.txt

Local lawmaker proposes Freemason plate

By Holden Parrish - Assistant City Editor

Feb. 23, 2004

BOISE - Considered secretive by some, Freemasons and their supporters might soon have a chance to buck that trend.

In a matter of months, Idaho Masons might be able to drive around town sporting specialty license plates. Legislation to that effect will be proposed today in the Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee by state Sen. Bert Marley.

The McCammon-based Democrat said custom license plates would not only allow Masons to get noticed, it would also help them raise money for those in need - proceeds for plate sales would go toward charities.

"I know a number of people who are Freemasons," he said. "They are good people and it's a good organization."

Also known as the Free and Accepted Masons, Freemasons comprise an international fraternal organization that assists numerous charities worldwide. According to SkepDic.com, there are more than 4 million Freemasons worldwide.

Marley estimated specialty Freemason plates would cost $25 more than standard plates. He added that the Legislature has already approved of two new custom plates - one honors veterans, the other recognizes Lewiston's historical significance.

"There's a number of (custom plates) out there," he said. "They have to meet certain criteria. Some of the proceeds must go toward charitable organizations and they have to sell so many plates for so many years or they get dropped."

Marley doesn't expect his offering to meet with much resistance.