Lawmaker backs amendment to waive passport fees for Purple Heart, Medal of Honor recipients

A lawmaker said the House should approve an amendment to exempt Purple Heart and Medal of Honor recipients from passport fees, calling the change a ‘‘simple yet meaningful way to recognize these recipients.’’

The speaker, identified in the transcript as Lawmaker (Speaker 1), said, "I rise in favor of this amendment which exempts passport fees for all Purple Heart and Medal of Honor recipients." The lawmaker argued the awards ‘‘represent two of the highest forms of military valor’’ and that recipients should not face what the transcript describes as "over $100" in passport fees to travel as U.S. citizens.

A second lawmaker, identified in the transcript as Lawmaker (Speaker 2), also voiced support and emphasized the passport’s symbolic role, saying, "The passport is the document that represents American citizenship abroad," and that those wounded or recognized for valor "should not have to pay an administrative fee to represent America abroad after sacrificing so much for the United States of America." That speaker added, "So very proud of you offering this, Mr. Baird," signaling support for the member who offered the amendment.

The first speaker thanked "Representative Mike Levin of California" for introducing a standalone bill version of the amendment, noting the amendment would add Purple Heart and Medal of Honor recipients to an existing list of passport-fee exemptions. The transcript does not record the full text of an enactment, a formal motion, or a vote on the amendment.

The exchange in the provided transcript centers on recognition and removing a financial barrier for decorated veterans. No procedural outcome or next steps are included in the excerpt.