However, the tags were properly affixed to my rear license plate in accordance with CA vehicle code.

I filed an appeal and was told that the fine would be *reduced* if I provided proof the violation had been corrected. So in my case, and I have heard this same story on dozens of consumer complaint websites, there is no violation in the first place, but the PVB stands by the theory that "everyone has an excuse" and that I must have "put the stickers on after I got the ticket". All these tag citations are considered valid, its a matter of how much you pay, whether you've "corrected" the problem or not.

And therein lies the potential for abuse and corruption. You can be in full compliance with the law, receive this ticket, and even with proof you were in compliance, you still have to pay PVB a fee.