Fraternal Order of Police petition lawmakers for license plate

The Washington State Fraternal Order of Police is gathering petition signatures as it prepares to ask state lawmakers to approve a vehicle license plate that will help raise funds in support of law enforcement officers.

The money raised with the license plates will provide mental health support for officers.

"Through conversations over the past year, we really recognize that there is a huge issue around law enforcement mental health, and PTSD in first responders, as well as a high rate of law enforcement suicide," said Lynette Buffington with WA FOP. "We recognize that many agencies and officers would like to receive some support in this area, but the need far outweighs the resources."

If it's approved, the $28.oo additional fee from the WA FOP vehicle license plate would provide funds for wellness and mental health support services.

In order to put the proposal in front of lawmakers, FOP needs to gather at least 3,500 signatures.

The organization hopes to get support and legislative approval, and if the plate meets the requirements of the Department of Licensing, they hope to start producing the plates as early as July 1, 2020.

"We know that there is a Law Enforcement Memorial plate that has been available in our state for some time," Buffington added. "We do value the purpose of that plate for fallen officers and their families and the perpetual maintenance of the Law Enforcement Memorial in Olympia. We believe that there is room for more than one law enforcement support license plate in the state, and we know the citizens and residents of Washington support law enforcement and want to show that support."

If you would like to sign the petition, which does not require you to purchase a plate at any time, you can do so electronically on the FOP website, or download and print a PDF form and mail it to:

Washington Fraternal Order of Police
PO Box 1702
Tacoma, WA 98401
Attn: License Plate Program