Rhode Island lawmakers are looking to peel away one of the state's most recognizable symbols from its roads: the Rhode Island Mr. Potato Head license plates. In a move that has sparked a heated (and slightly hilarious) local debate, legislators introduced a bill in late January 2026 to discontinue the specialty plates featuring the beloved spud. The proposal comes as a direct response to Hasbro's headquarters move from Pawtucket to Boston, a decision that has left many Rhode Islanders feeling like they've been dropped like a hot potato.
The 'Mash' Up: Why Lawmakers Want the Spud Gone
For over two decades, Rhode Island drivers have proudly displayed the mustachioed tater on their bumpers, with proceeds supporting the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. However, the mood shifted dramatically after Hasbro, the toy giant behind Mr. Potato Head, announced it would relocate its corporate headquarters to Boston's Seaport District by the end of 2026.
Representative Brian Newberry (R-North Smithfield), who introduced the bill (H 7085), argues that the state should no longer provide free advertising for a company that is abandoning its longtime home. "It may seem trivial compared to many other things, but it's a matter of self-respect," Newberry stated, emphasizing that the move would cause "untold economic harm" to the local economy.
The bill, co-sponsored by Rep. Thomas Noret (D-Coventry), would stop the issuance of new Mr. Potato Head plates. Current owners could keep their spuds, but the plates would become non-transferable—effectively turning them into collectors' items for this weird New England news saga.
A 'Chip' on Their Shoulder: The Local Reaction
The proposal has divided Ocean State residents, creating a classic Rhode Island controversy. On one side, you have the "scorned ex" faction who agree with Newberry: if Hasbro doesn't want Rhode Island, Rhode Island doesn't want their potato. They see the plate as a relic of a partnership that has soured.
On the other side are the traditionalists and charity advocates. Since their introduction in 2002 to celebrate the toy's 50th anniversary, these RI specialty license plates have raised approximately $60,000 for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Critics of the bill, including local hunger relief advocates, argue that spite shouldn't come at the cost of charitable donations.
The Financial Impact
Currently, the plates cost $40, with $20 going directly to the Food Bank. While sales have tapered off from their peak in the early 2000s, they still provide a steady stream of passive income for hunger relief. Removing the option could slice off a consistent revenue source for the non-profit, proving that this political statement might have real-world consequences.
Hasbro's Exit: The End of an Era in Pawtucket
The backdrop to this license plate drama is the significant economic shift caused by the Hasbro headquarters move. For nearly a century, Pawtucket has been the heart of the toy company's operations. The announcement in September 2025 that the company would transition over 700 jobs to Boston was a major blow to the state's pride and purse.
Rhode Island officials had made numerous attempts to keep the toy giant within state lines, offering new headquarters sites in Providence and Pawtucket. Ultimately, the allure of Boston's tech-heavy Seaport District won out, leaving Rhode Island lawmakers to pick up the pieces—and potentially toss out the potato.
What Happens Next for the Spud?
As of late January 2026, the bill has been referred to the House Committee on Special Legislation. If passed, the Division of Motor Vehicles would cease production of the plates, marking the end of an era for funny local news in 2026. For now, the Mr. Potato Head plate remains available, but perhaps not for long.
If you've ever wanted to drive around with a plastic vegetable on your car, now might be your last chance to grab a piece of Rhode Island history before it gets mashed for good.
