Couple fighting plate battle

VALRICO, Fla. -- A couple wanted to express pride in their Italian heritage with the license plate "2 Dagos," but were told to return the plate to the state because some people feel it's an ethnic slur.

But Phil and Fran Lascola said they are fighting the request, saying they don't consider the term insulting.

"How in the world could they say this is obscene?" said Phil Lascola. "We're Italians, we're not slamming anybody."

Florida issued the license plate 18 months ago for the couple's BMW, but reconsidered its decision when it received a recent complaint.

The state says it has the right to withdraw tags that are vulgar or objectionable.

Controversial plates have included variations of the "f" word.