NH House Approves License Plates Honoring Gold Star Families

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  Published in House and Home on Thursday, March 19th 2026 at 5:22 GMT by New Hampshire Union Leader
      Locale: UNITED STATES

CONCORD, NH - New Hampshire is one step closer to honoring the ultimate sacrifice made by its service members and offering a visible tribute to their families, as House Bill 1198, establishing specialty license plates for Gold Star families, successfully passed the House of Representatives on Wednesday. The vote marks a significant milestone in a multi-year effort spearheaded by a Nashua family determined to ensure their son's memory - and the memories of all fallen New Hampshire heroes - are never forgotten.

The legislation, if enacted, will authorize the New Hampshire Department of Motor Vehicles to issue distinctive license plates to the immediate family members of service members who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. These plates will serve as a poignant and public acknowledgement of their loss, allowing Gold Star families to carry a symbol of remembrance with them wherever they go.

The impetus behind House Bill 1198 stems from the tireless advocacy of John and Susan Collins of Nashua. Their son, U.S. Army Sergeant David J. Collins, tragically lost his life in Afghanistan in 2013. For the past several years, the Collinses have dedicated themselves to bringing this measure to fruition, believing it's a fitting way to honor not only David but all New Hampshire sons and daughters who have made the supreme sacrifice.

"It's been a long journey, but we're incredibly grateful to the House for recognizing the importance of this bill," said Susan Collins following the vote. "This isn't just about a license plate; it's about ensuring our son, and all those who gave their lives for our freedom, are remembered. It's a small gesture that means a great deal to families like ours."

The bill proposes that a donation to the New Hampshire Fallen Heroes Fund will be required to obtain the specialty plates. This fund provides crucial support to the families of fallen service members, offering financial assistance, grief counseling, and other vital resources during incredibly difficult times. The license plate fee adds another layer of fundraising, ensuring the Fund can continue its important work.

Similar license plate initiatives exist in numerous states across the country, all reflecting a growing national recognition of the unique challenges and grief experienced by Gold Star families. These plates often serve as a conversation starter, prompting opportunities for education and remembrance within communities. They also foster a sense of camaraderie among Gold Star families, allowing them to identify each other and offer mutual support.

The New Hampshire Fallen Heroes Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was established in 2006. According to their website (https://nhfallenheroesfund.org/), the organization has provided over $2 million in support to New Hampshire families. Their services extend beyond immediate financial aid, encompassing long-term support for surviving spouses and children.

The bill now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to face further scrutiny and debate. Supporters are optimistic about its prospects, citing a generally bipartisan consensus on honoring military families. However, some legislators have raised concerns about the potential impact on the state's license plate inventory and administrative costs. Advocates argue that the number of plates requested will be relatively limited and that the donation component will offset any associated expenses.

Several veteran organizations have publicly endorsed House Bill 1198, including the New Hampshire State Council of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion Department of New Hampshire. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by fallen service members and providing support to their grieving families. These groups plan to actively lobby Senators to support the bill's passage.

The passage of this bill would send a powerful message to New Hampshire's military community - a message of gratitude, respect, and enduring remembrance. It would offer a visible symbol of support to Gold Star families, reminding them that their loved ones' sacrifices will never be forgotten. The Collins family, and many others like them, are eagerly awaiting the Senate's decision, hoping to see their vision of honoring New Hampshire's fallen heroes become a reality.