Rhode Islanders have long been able to choose Mr. Potato Head for their specialty license plates.
from the smallest state in the U.S. to Boston, two lawmakers say it's time to hash out whether Rhode Island should continue promoting one of the company's most iconic characters.Under the proposal introduced earlier this month, Rhode Island's Division of Motor Vehicles would stop providing Mr.
Potato Head as an option for a specialty license plate. Currently the plate costs around $40, with half of that amount going to help support the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Rep. Brian Newberry, a Republican from North Smithfield, said in an email that he filed the legislation because Hasbro leaving the state will cause “untold economic harm and loss of tax revenue.” “There is no reason we should be advertising their products on our license plates,” Newberry said. “It may seem trivial compared to many other things but it’s a matter of self-respect.” Mr. Potato Head license plates were first issued in 2002 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the beloved toy, which notably has appeared in the “” films. The plates include a small image of Mr. Potato Head holding a sign of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and “help end hunger” at the bottom of the plate. “The license plate started at a time when Mr. Potato Head was all over the state and was having a moment,” said Kate MacDonald, spokesperson for the food bank, which has received nearly $60,000 over the years due to the plate. “And while it has tapered off over the years, it’s been a steady way for people to contribute.”Mr. Potato Head has been around since 1952. Yet the original toy didn’t come with a plastic potato. Instead, kids had to supply their own vegetable to poke eyes, a nose or mustache into. Hasbro, which also makes Monopoly and My Little Pony, bought the brand and eventually added a plastic spud. The toy company announced last year that it would be moving to Boston by the end of 2026 after operating in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, for nearly 70 years. Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.'Is there anything you want to say to the families?' 'No, not right now'▶WATCH:Here's the moment ex-Uvalde CISD police officer Adrian Gonzales was found not guilty by a juryHoax threat made to Northeast Side school causes fear, panicDeveloper says it wants to work with community to reimagine Lone Star Brewery siteCPS Energy urges conservation during peak hours ahead of icy weekendBexar County helps family on verge of eviction after KSAT storyNorthwest Side neighbor asks for expedited traffic light installation at ‘Dead Man’s Curve’Closing arguments set to begin in child endangerment trial of ex-Uvalde CISD police officerLoad of bees spilled during crash on I-35 likely headed to California, expert says1:23San Antonio TikTok user shares ICE whereabouts to ‘help the community’Wemby says NBA needs more bald players‘We’re all united’: Sights and sounds from San Antonio’s 39th annual MLK MarchCity refills San Antonio River Walk after crews clean out trashFormer MLK Commission chair discusses march's cultural significanceSights and Sounds from MLK March 2026: NEMI House of Glory previews performanceFirst-time MLK March attendee shares atmosphere experience, reason for attendingCounty expedites financial assistance for family at risk of eviction after KSAT report, judge saysCounty expedites financial assistance for family at risk of eviction after KSAT report, judge says▶3D animation traces Robb gunman’s approximate stepsRestaurant Weeks officially returns to San Antonio▶
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Hasbro's Move to Boston Sparks Debate Over Mr. Potato Head PlatesRhode Islanders have long been able to choose Mr. Potato Head for their specialty license plates. However, Hasbro's decision to move its headquarters to Boston has motivated two lawmakers to propose ending the option of Mr. Potato Head plates. The proposal was introduced earlier this month.
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