A new license plate featuring a horse might be coming to New Jersey soon after there was a unanimous vote in the state Assembly for an official state animal.  

The state has more horses per capita than anywhere in the U.S., and Republican Assemblyman Kevin Rooney is wanting to recognize that through a license plate.

In turn, funds raised from the plates would support therapeutic riding programs.

“And unlike many pieces of legislation where the money generated just goes to budget, this will be directed to the care of horses, special needs therapeutic riding programs and more importantly, our wounded warriors that gave so much to us to protect us, now we can help them,” Rooney says.

Local nonprofits, like Special Strides Out of Monroe Township, are looking forward to the exciting possibility of more awareness.

“I am so excited about seeing a horse and the meaning behind the horse on a license plate in New Jersey,” says Laurie Landy, the founder of Special Strides.

The therapeutic riding center sees nearly 110 clients a week using therapy, recreation and education on their farm through physical and occupational therapy and speech pathology utilizing the movement of the horse.

“To have the potential for another donor stream to bring us additional money, to help with financial assistance, can make a huge difference in the lives of many of our clients,” says Susie Rehr, of Special Strides.

The senate will need to approve the bill before the governor has the chance to sign off.

If it gets to that point, at least 500 drivers across the state will need to apply for the plate for design plans to proceed.