A House committee on Tuesday gave a do-pass recommendation to a bill authorizing a specialty license plate recognizing the “Lowrider Capital of the World.” Senator (presenter) and Representative Borrego presented the measure, saying the plate would spotlight a local cultural tradition and generate proceeds for museum exhibits.

Supporters told the committee the plate would celebrate lowrider culture and could boost tourism. “Where we're brown, we're down, and we're low to the ground,” Senator (presenter) said when introducing the proposal, adding that the plate would “shine a light on a community that needs a win.” Representative Borrego, a cosponsor, said she drove in from Española to present the measure and described the community as “really proud” of its culture.

The bill would direct proceeds from the specialty plate to the Department of Cultural Affairs to be used for grants to museums that would develop lowrider exhibits and materials explaining the history of lowriding in New Mexico, the senator told the committee. No members of the public registered opposition and no online opposition was recorded during the hearing.

Committee members asked several procedural and practical questions. Representative Dowell noted she traditionally votes against specialty plate measures but praised the cause; Representative Brown, the ranking member, asked how many lowriders exist in the state and said she did not know an exact figure. Committee members also asked whether the plate design would include space for trailers used to transport lowrider cars; the presenter said the legislation was drafted to allow use on tow trailers as well.

Representative Romero moved to pass the bill; the motion was seconded by Ranking Member Brown. The committee recorded an 8-1 vote in favor of a do-pass recommendation. No formal amendments were adopted during the hearing.

The committee adjourned after completing its roll calls and announcing additional business for the week.