RICHMOND, Va.

Abortion-rights advocates have been unable to halt the "Choose Life" license plates in nearly two-dozen states, so now they're working to balance the bumper debate.

Activists are pushing a "Trust Women/Respect Choice" license plate in Virginia. The state would become only the fourth to offer a pro-choice plate and the first to require legislative approval for it. Most other states have administrative agencies approve specialty plates.

Supporters have threatened to sue if lawmakers don't give drivers the option.

Opponents, including the state's attorney general and governor, say they oppose diverting money from plate fees to Planned Parenthood — not necessarily the plates themselves.

A state Senate committee could vote on the proposal this week.