Wendy Auger proudly displayed her vanity plate “PB4WEGO” for fifteen years, spreading joy along New Hampshire’s roads. However, her happiness turned to disappointment when the DMV rejected her plate due to its inclusion of the word “pe*.” Auger, a bartender from Rochester, felt this decision infringed on her freedom of speech, arguing that “pe* before we go” was harmless advice.
She eagerly awaited the plate’s availability when New Hampshire expanded vanity plate character limits from six to seven. Nevertheless, the state cited specific rules, claiming changes were mandated by a court order years ago.
Auger’s plight raises significant questions regarding the balance between personal expression and government regulation. Should she be compelled to relinquish her cherished plate after fifteen years?
Expressing her frustration, Auger remarked, “I feel like it’s an invasion of my privacy and my rights.” Despite her protests, the DMV remained steadfast, pointing to legal mandates.
Auger’s case underscores the complexities inherent in navigating individual freedoms within a regulatory framework. It prompts reflection on the boundaries of free speech in public domains, highlighting the broader implications of governmental decisions on individual liberties.
