CA AB1097

Requires license plates to be mounted parallel with the ground so that characters are upright, in addition to existing requirements that they be securely fastened, clearly visible, and legible.

Applies new mounting requirements to all vehicles, with specific exceptions for tow trucks, tank vehicles, truck tractors, garbage trucks, and livestock trailers, which may mount rear plates up to 90 inches from the ground.

Creates a new crime or infraction for violations of the parallel mounting requirement.

Specifies that no state reimbursement is required for local agency costs incurred in enforcing this new requirement under Article XIII B of the California Constitution.

Removes previous provisions requiring state agencies to purchase or lease motor vehicles with at least 35 miles per gallon fuel efficiency (these provisions were struck from the amended version).