FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

November 8, 2024  

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Governor Whitmer Signs Bipartisan Bill Honoring the Service and Sacrifice of Women Veterans, Creates “Woman Veteran” Special Recognition Plate 

LANSING, Mich.  – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed bipartisan Senate Bill 788, providing women veterans an opportunity to display their service to our country by creating a “woman veteran” special license plate.  

“Today, I signed a bill that recognizes the more than 46,000 brave Michigan women veterans who served our nation in uniform, defending our freedoms abroad and here at home,” said Governor Whitmer. “These special license plates give these brave servicewomen the opportunity to share their stories and build community through their shared experience as women veterans. Together, let’s continue to celebrate our veterans and fight for those who fought for us.” 

Senate Bill 788, sponsored by state Senator Sylvia Santana (D-Detroit), allows a woman veteran to apply to the Secretary of State for a “woman veteran” special license plate, increasing recognition for women veterans and allowing them to proudly display their service.  

"Our veterans have risked everything to protect our freedoms and secure our nation. They deserve meaningful recognition for their dedication and sacrifices," said state Senator Sylvia Santana (D-Detroit). "This new legislation will establish a specialty license plate specifically for women veterans, honoring their service and allowing them to display their status with pride. Thank you to the governor, and to my colleagues for supporting our women veterans." 

“Female veterans are rarely recognized or thanked for their service," said state Senator Veronica Klinefelt (D-Eastpointe), Chair of the Senate Veterans and Emergency Services Committee. "This is one small way for the general public to recognize them so that they can show their appreciation.” 

“For decades, women across Michigan have stepped up to serve our nation, protecting freedom and democracy,” said state Senator Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.). “Filled with a sense of duty, they defied every obstacle and proved they were qualified, ready, and up to the task of defending our country. By establishing a specialty license plate for women veterans to proudly display their service, we celebrate these brave veterans’ determination and self-sacrifice every day of the year.” 

Recognizing Michigan’s Military Women and Their Families 

Governor Whitmer has made significant investments to support and recognize Michigan’s veterans, service members, and their families.  

• Appointed over 100 active military and veterans to numerous statewide boards and commissions to ensure their voices are heard. 

• Appointed by President Biden to the Council of Governors to work with federal officials on defense, National Guard, disaster response, and other security issues. 

• Signed legislation designating February 1 as “Blue Star Mothers Day.” 

• Launched the “She is a Veteran” campaign to reach 47,000 women veterans and created Check on MIVet, serving 500+ families requesting a check-in on their loved ones. 

• Consistently increased funding for veteran's services organizations and officers. 

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