11 October 2005

Governor unveils license plate honoring firefighters

TOPEKA—Surrounded by firefighters, Governor Kathleen Sebelius today unveiled a license plate honoring those men and women who work to keep us safe from fire. During her announcement, Governor Sebelius praised the work of firefighters across our state.

“Firefighters and their fellow first responders are true everyday heroes. They literally go out to keep us safe. Our society depends on their heroism, bravery and sacrifice. It’s only appropriate that we honor them in a way visible to all Kansans,” Sebelius said.

This specialized license plate is now available to firefighters and retired firefighters at all county treasurers’ offices. The firefighter plate has a gold background with the firefighter Maltese cross symbol on the left side. At the lower center, the plate reads “Firefighters.”

“The men and women who protect us can’t be thanked enough. This is a simple way to recognize their service,” the Governor said.

Kansas firefighters may make application for a Firefighter License Plate, by contacting their local fire chief’s office and requesting a Firefighter License Plate Certification form. Firefighters may present the form to their local county treasurer’s tag office to receive a Firefighter License Plate. A certification form must be presented annually, at the time of vehicle registration renewal, to maintain the Firefighter License Plate.

The Harper Fire Department acted as technical advisors on the design of the plate. The firefighters’ Maltese cross was chosen because of its historical importance and is recognized across the entire nation.

“As Director of the Kansas Division of Vehicles and as a member of the Harper Fire Department, I am extremely proud of this new plate,” said Carmen Alldritt.

Firefighter License Plates may be displayed on passenger vehicles and light trucks up to 20,000 pounds maximum gross vehicle weight. There is a fee of $40 in addition to the regular registration and tag fees. The Kansas Firefighter License Plate will only be issued to a currently registered vehicle owned by an active or retired Kansas firefighter.