A New Hampshire mother of four found herself at the center of a bureaucratic whirlwind when the state’s Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) ordered her to surrender the vanity license plates she had proudly displayed for 15 years. The plates, a playful reminder to her kids to “pee before we go,” read PB4WEGO.
The Controversy Begins
In 2019, Wendy Auger of Rochester, New Hampshire, received an official letter from the DMV stating that her personalized plates violated state guidelines. According to the DMV, the combination of letters referred to “sexual or excretory acts or functions,” deeming the plates inappropriate under their rules.
The decision baffled Auger, who insisted the plates were harmless and widely relatable to any parent. “Who hasn’t told their kids to ‘pee before we go’?” Auger asked, defending the family-oriented message behind her plates.
A Viral Call to Action
Refusing to back down, Auger took her story to Facebook, sharing the DMV’s recall letter alongside a photo of her plates. The post quickly went viral, sparking widespread outrage and support. Social media users chimed in, calling the DMV’s actions “ridiculous” and commending Auger’s humor and creativity.
“Not only is it funny and cute, but it’s a really good reminder!” one commenter noted. Another joked about potential alternatives, suggesting plates that read Pee or Pay.
“Live Free or Die” in Action
Auger invoked New Hampshire’s iconic state motto, “Live Free or Die,” in her fight to keep the plates. She expressed her frustration, saying, “If I have to take it off the plate, then I’m not going to be able to live free.”
Despite being told she could choose a new customized plate at no cost, Auger remained firm, calling the recall a nonsensical bureaucratic decision.
Governor Steps In
As the story gained traction, it caught the attention of New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu. Recognizing the overwhelming public support for Auger, Sununu stepped in to resolve the matter personally. He left Auger a voicemail confirming that the issue had been addressed and assuring her that she could keep her plates.
“Hey Wendy, it’s Chris Sununu,” the governor said. “Sorry for that little bureaucratic hold-up…but obviously common sense prevailed.”
A Victory for Humor and Common Sense
On August 28, 2019, Auger shared a triumphant update on Facebook: “This Sassy Momma Has Her Plates!!!” The post celebrated her win against the DMV, cementing her plates as a symbol of parental humor and perseverance.
Auger’s story serves as a lighthearted reminder that even in the face of bureaucratic overreach, common sense—and a little sass—can prevail.