Panel narrowly reports bill to remove Robert E. Lee specialty plate after heated testimony
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Summary
HB 13 44, which would end new issuance of a Robert E. Lee license plate, was reported out of the DMV subcommittee on a 4–3 vote after the sponsor argued the plate celebrates a Confederate figure and an opponent framed removal as discriminatory.
Delegate Helmer introduced HB 13 44, arguing the Commonwealth should stop issuing license plates that depict Robert E. Lee because the celebration of Lee ties to a 'lost cause' narrative and Jim Crow‑era suppression. He said current plate holders would retain plates until they expired and said the state should manage expiration responsibly.
No supporters signed up; Edward Willis testified in opposition, defending Lee’s actions and lineage and arguing that removing the plates would be discriminatory and contravene constitutional protections. Willis asked the committee to carry the bill over or pass it by indefinitely.
After testimony and deliberation, the subcommittee voted 4–3 to report HB 13 44. The close vote reflects divided views among members on the proposal to stop new issuance of the Lee plate.