The past several months has seen a drastic increase in the sale of specialty plates. The unpopularity of the new "Mr. Smiley" plate has been blamed for the increase. The increased sale of specialty plates means that the charities that sponsor the plates receive more money, about $10 per plate. The Transportation Cabinet receives about the same amount of money from a specialty plate as from a regular plate.

More information: Courier-Journal: Rise in specialty plates' profits credited to 'Mr. Smiley' backlash (July 28, 2003) 

Updated: Aug. 7, 2003

Additional articles: Associated Press: Many seem to frown on Mr. Smiley (July 29, 2003) , Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer: New plate backlash leaves officials smiling (July 30, 2003)  (free registration required)