During National Military Appreciation Month and Memorial Day recognition, Sen. Santana’s effort to honor Michigan’s brave servicewomen takes a major step forward with honored guest, veteran Lolita Tucker in attendance
LANSING, Mich. (May 22, 2024) — Today, the Michigan Senate Committee on Veterans & Emergency Services voted favorably to move a bill introduced by Sen. Sylvia Santana (D-Detroit) that would authorize a special registration plate for women veterans in the state of Michigan. The bill, Senate Bill 788, is intended to further recognize the contributions to and sacrifices for our nation and our state by Michigan’s women veterans.
“Women have not always been authorized for official military service in this country, but they have made countless sacrifices and massive contributions in one way or another in every conflict from the Revolutionary War on forward,” Sen. Santana said. “Serving in official military capacities, servicewomen have continued to answer the call. I’m proud to honor as best I can Michigan’s women veterans who have put their lives on the line to defend our national security.”
Currently, the state of Michigan provides 30 license plates for veterans and their loved ones — recognizing wounded veterans, Gold Star families, reservists and many others. This legislation would allow Michigan to join 17 other states who provide a special registration plate to specifically honor women veterans for their sacrifice.
With more than 46,000 women veterans, Michigan is home to the 15th-largest women veteran population in the country, according to the U. S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs. While women only accounted for 4% of the veteran population nationally in 2000, they are projected to comprise 18% by 2040 — making them the fastest growing segment of the veteran population.
Lolita Tucker, State Commander for the Michigan’s Disabled American Veterans, is one of those Michigan women veterans. Commander Tucker served from 1996 to 2003 in the U.S. Army, including two deployments to Japan, Kuwait and Iraq. She now serves Michigan’s disabled veterans community ensuring they are receiving the support they need and deserve. Commander Tucker presented before the committee on Wednesday prior to its vote in support of Santana’s bill.
“Women veterans are the most unique group of women you’ll meet. We wear combat boots and heels on any given day, and we deserve to be recognized for our bravery and thanked for our service just like men who have served,” Commander Tucker said. “While it is just a small step, authorizing a women veterans license plate provides visibility and recognition. It reminds the public of the unique roles that women continue to play in defending our nation. It is a point of pride and encourages inclusivity. I thank Sen. Santana for taking up this bill.”
The bill is also endorsed by the Michigan American Legion. It now goes to the full Senate for consideration.
In addition to attending today’s committee hearing, Tucker will also accompany Sen. Santana as her guest at the 29th Annual Senate Memorial Day Service tomorrow, Thursday, May 23 held in the Senate Chamber. The annual ceremony can be watched online by visiting https://www.facebook.com/MichiganSenateDemocrats.
Sen. Santana currently serves on the Senate Veterans and Emergency Services Committee and is deeply committed to supporting all veterans who call Michigan home. Last year, she championed Senate Bill 176 which, along with Senate Bill 330, protects the property tax exemption for disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. She has also supported legislative efforts to recognize Blue Star Mother’s Day and voted in favor of House Bill 4555, which permanently established June 12 as Women Veterans Recognition Day in Michigan.
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