Rep. Stanley, Legislature Create New License Plate for Families of Fallen Law Enforcement Officers

(BOSTON—7/14/2026) The Massachusetts Legislature passed legislation to create a new special license plate to honor 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.

“Our law enforcement officers risk their lives every day to protect their families, friends, neighbors, and community,” said Representative Thomas M. Stanley (D-Waltham). “It is only right for the Commonwealth to give families a way to honor their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice. This legislation helps the family of Waltham Police Officer Paul Tracey and others pay tribute to their service and keep their memory alive.”

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.