By Bob Katzen

The Transportation Committee held a hearing on a bill that would require the Registry of Motor Vehicles to establish a Legion of Merit motor vehicle license plate bearing the words “Legion of Merit Recipient,” to be given at no cost to recipients of the National Legion of Merit Award – a highly prestigious military decoration awarded by the U.S. Military to qualifying service members of all eight uniformed services and to foreign dignitaries who have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements. The surviving spouse of a deceased Legion of Merit recipient may also retain the plate until he or she remarries or fails to renew the registration.

Rep. Todd Smola (R-Warren), the sponsor of the measure, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him to comment on his proposal.