In a decision that could affect the issuance of future specialty license plates in Florida, a federal judge overturned the state's rejection of a Confederate tag.

Judge John Antoon said the state acted unconstitutionally in rejecting a specialty plate for the Sons of Confederate Veterans. The group had paid the requisite fees and complied with all conditions applicable to the sale of the tag, but the Legislature blocked its issuance.

Claims that the Florida Bar has beaten back judicial reforms proposed by House Republicans were denied by House Speaker Dean Cannon's office Wednesday.

Reacting Tuesday to an e-mail issued by three Palm Beach County attorneys and a Palm Beach County judge, Cannon spokeswoman Katie Betta said GOP leaders are continuing the push to reform courts and curb the Bar's influence.

"These people don't represent the Bar. Speaker Cannon is working with the Bar, but the notion that a deal was cut is wrong," Betta told Sunshine State News.