What is Massachusetts' New "Blue Star" License Plate?

In Massachusetts, there are over 17,000 men and women who work as law enforcement officers, striving to keep residents safe and provide a better quality of life. The sad reality of that career is the risk of losing your life in the line of duty.

Throughout the state's history, 417 law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty. State Representative Steve Xiarhos is now celebrating the passage of new legislation, the Blue Star Family License Plate Bill, which he says pays tribute to those men and women, allowing families to display their loved one's legacy.

State Rep. Xiarhos, a retired 40-year police officer was elected in 2020 and serves as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives from the 5th Barnstable district. In addition to his career in law enforcement, Xiarhos is also a Gold Star father, Nicholas, the oldest of his four children was a member of the United State Marine Corp and was killed while serving in Afghanistan.

The Blue Star Family License Plate Bill has made it through both the Massachusetts House and Senate and has been sent to Governor Maura Healey for her signature.

This license plate is much more than a plate. It is a lasting tribute to our fallen heroes and will allow their immediate family members to proudly display their loved one’s legacy for all to see. It ensures their stories continue to be told and that their sacrifice is never forgotten.

As a retired Yarmouth police officer of more than 40 years and a Gold Star father, this legislation means a great deal to me. I was honored to take the House rostrum and speak in support of this bill because I know firsthand that while our heroes may be gone, their sacrifice lives on through those who love them.

State Rep. Xiarhos

Supporters of this bill say license plate will help keep their stories alive and ensure that future generations never forget the men and women who gave everything to protect our communities.

Each plate will tell a story. Each plate will honor a hero. Each plate will remind us that freedom and public safety are never free.

An Act honoring Blue Star Families will make these special plates available to eligible families completely free of charge from the RMV. Eligible families can contact the Massachusetts RMV directly for information on how to provide the required proof of relationship and apply for the plate.