[reaperducer]

I don't think that the police had a problem with the black-on-orange color scheme. It worked fine for New York for what seemed like forever back in the 70's.

As for peeling paint, that's a problem that West Virginia has in the early 90's, too. The urban legend was that it was caused by the prisoners who made the plates peeing in the paint.

[Phillips126]

That is likely true and perhaps it is just my vision. I just find the contrast to be worse leading to me personally having a harder time reading it in moving-vehicle conditions.

All NY license plates are made in the Auburn Correctional Facility. Had they been made in multiple locations it would be interesting to see if all of the problems were stemming from a single source or if it is an issue with materials. That is an interesting urban legend.