That is only true if a section of that tail light actually reflects light and is intended to serve as a reflector.
Looks like the cops finally wise up and use the red reflector regulation to pull people over. Pretty much anyone who have the OEM license plate hanger removed will be an automatic violation. This is easy picking as a reason to pull you over and then take a good look at your bike while you are stationary and give you a bigger ticket if there is anything else.