Florida’s next specialty license plate could pack a punch.
Sarasota Republican Sen. Joe Gruters filed a measure (SB 264) that would create new specialty plates to benefit the UFC Foundation, the charitable arm of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC[2]).[1]
Founded in 2021, the UFC Foundation[3] supports charitable initiatives focused on youth mentorship, arts and education, public service, military appreciation, and individuals overcoming critical or life-threatening illnesses.
Under the legislation, the specialty license plates would be developed by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles[4] and would be required to include colors and designs approved by the Department. The plates would contain the word “Florida” at the top of the plate, and the words “UFC Lives Here” printed at the bottom of the plate.
Annual fees from the sale of the plate would be distributed to the UFC Foundation, and the Foundation would be authorized to use 10% of the proceeds to promote and market the plates.
The Foundation could then use the remaining proceeds to support charities and nonprofit organizations that align with the Foundation’s goals and mission, including children’s hospitals, support for first responders, support for the military, youth advocacy and mentorship, and to fund the development of youth mentorship programs in partnership with local law enforcement agencies.
Gruters said in a press release that the UFC “has an unmatched way of bringing the community together.”
“This license plate will be a special way for Florida drivers and UFC fans to support the great work the UFC Foundation is doing within our local communities,” Gruters said.
Port Orange Republican Rep. Chase Tramont supported the measure and will soon be filing his own version of the bill in the House.
“We’re excited about the opportunity for Floridians to support such a great organization,” Tramont said. “The UFC Foundation is truly committed to values that unite and inspire us all. With this specialty plate, Florida drivers will have the opportunity to carry their mission forward.”
UFC Chief Operating Officer Lawrence Epstein said in a statement that the Foundation is thrilled to be expanding its specialty plates to Florida[5], which Epstein said is home to “some of the most passionate UFC fans in the world.”
“UFC takes pride in supporting charitable causes that align with our mission and goals, and the specialty license plate program is a great way for Florida residents to join us and help local charities while demonstrating their enthusiasm as UFC fans,” Epstein said.
If passed, the bill would take effect on Oct. 1, 2026.
References
- ^ SB 264 (www.flsenate.gov)
- ^ UFC (www.ufc.com)
- ^ UFC Foundation (www.ufc.com)
- ^ Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (www.flhsmv.gov)
- ^ Florida (floridapolitics.com)