The Purple Heart License Plate Amendment Act of 2025 aims to amend the District of Columbia Revenue Act of 1937 by requiring the Mayor to design and issue specialty motor vehicle identification tags for recipients of the Purple Heart Award, as well as for their surviving spouses and children. This legislation addresses the current lack of recognition for Purple Heart recipients in the District, as they do not have a specific license plate option, unlike many other states. The bill establishes a one-time application fee of $10 and an annual display fee of $10, which will be deposited into the Office of Veterans Affairs Fund.
The new section added to the law mandates that the Mayor create these identification tags, which will feature a design or emblem that signifies the vehicle owner as a Purple Heart Award recipient or a surviving family member. Additionally, the Mayor is tasked with requiring documentation to verify the recipient's status and may issue rules and regulations necessary for the implementation of this act. This initiative seeks to honor the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families, ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve.