Sean Kean Joins in Call for Release and Passage of Gold Star Parents Bill

October 14, 2009

Contact: Andy Pratt / (609) 292-5199
Senator Sean T. Kean (R-11)

Senator Sean Kean, R-Monmouth, responded to a Star-Ledger editorial urging passage of legislation that finally would allow parents of fallen soldiers, Marines, sailors, airmen and other military personnel killed in combat to buy “Gold Star Family” license plates for their cars registered in New Jersey. Legislation has been stalled for more than a year, apparently because the Motor Vehicle Commission says it’s losing money on other types of specialty plates.

“As a prime sponsor of legislation that would authorize Gold Star plates, I welcome the Star-Ledger’s call to stop stalling and start honoring the parents of our fallen service men and women,” Senator Kean said. “These license plates will allow parents to express both their grief at heartbreaking losses and pride in the courage and honor of their sons and daughters.”

Senator Kean and Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman are the prime sponsors of Senate Bill 1890, which would allow the state to offer “Gold Star Family” plates. The bill has bipartisan support with 13 co-sponsors from both political parties. Senator Kean urged Senator Nicholas Sacco, chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, to move S-1890 through committee immediately. Senator Kean also called on Senate President Dick Codey to “no reference” the bill, which would push it out of committee and bring it to the full Legislature for a vote.

“The cost of providing these plates is negligible compared to the enormity of the losses experienced by Gold Star families,” Senator Kean said. “Parents who have made such terrible sacrifices for their country shouldn’t have to wait while legislators debate the merits of other types of specialty plates.”