Legislature Creates New License Plate for Families of Fallen Law Enforcement Officers

BOSTON – The Massachusetts legislature passed legislation to create a new special license plate that honors the memories of fallen law enforcement officers by offering a symbol of respect to their surviving spouses, parents, and children. 

The bill—S.2903, An Act honoring Blue Star Families—directs the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) to create a new Blue Star Families plate to help the family members remember their loved one in a visible way on their car. It would also create a Blue Star Family emblem for motorcycle plates. 

“This bill is about recognizing the sacrifice made by the families of fallen law enforcement officers,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “By making license plates available to the spouses, parents, and children of law enforcement who were killed in the line of duty, Massachusetts is ensuring that the legacy of those who gave their lives in service to our communities is never forgotten.” 

“Working in law enforcement is not just the people who actively serve out communities, but also those who support them: their families,” said Representative Tackey Chan (D-Quincy). “This legislation gives much-deserved recognition to those who live with the ultimate sacrifice for our safety.” 

“I am proud to join my colleagues in the House in passing legislation to honor those who gave their lives in the line of duty,” said Representative Bruce J. Ayers (D-Quincy). “These special plates recognize the sacrifices of our fallen law enforcement officers and ensure their families know that the Commonwealth will never forget their service.” 

Under the legislation, the RMV would be required to make the plates available to Blue Star spouses, parents, and children without charge. The RMV would also be able to offer vanity plate registrations for Blue Star plates up to six characters in length. 

The Blue Star Family license plates would join other special recognition plates currently offered by the RMV, including Gold Star Family plates for drivers with close family members who died as a result of their service in the armed forces. 

Having passed the legislature, the bill has now been sent to Governor Maura Healey for her signature.