SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, D-Peoria, recently helped pass two measures to allow family members of service men and women to choose license plates honoring them.

“In our busy lives it is easy to take the safety and security we enjoy for granted,” Gordon-Booth said. “Men and women from across our communities put their lives in danger to protect us. While they are away defending our nation, we have a responsibility to help support family members in Illinois.”

Gordon-Booth is co-sponsoring House Bill 5872, which would create Blue Star Banner license plates. The Blue Star Banner was used during World War I and throughout history to identify the families who had children serving in the military. The bill would allow the immediate family to choose a Blue Star Banner license plate while their family member is serving during any period of war or hostility.

House Bill 5475 allows children of fallen military members to receive a Gold Star License Plate. Under current law, these license plates are only offered to the spouse, sibling or parents of those that died in service of our country.

“These license plates are a small way to recognize the families who have lost a loved one in service to our country or currently have someone in the military,” Gordon-Booth added. “I will continue to support legislation that honors our soldiers and their families.”

The legislation is now being considered by the state Senate. For more information, contact Gordon-Booth’s constituent service office at 309-681-1992 or by email at repjgordon@gmail.com.