RICHMOND, VA – A Virginia lawmaker is seeking to end the state’s issuance of special license plates honoring the Sons of Confederate Veterans and Confederate General Robert E. Lee.
House Bill 1344, introduced by Delegate Dan Helmer, would repeal authorization for both plate designs and prohibit their renewal once current registrations expire. The measure, introduced January 19 and now awaiting committee referral, specifies that any existing Sons of Confederate Veterans or Robert E. Lee license plates will remain valid until their expiration dates but cannot be reissued or renewed afterward.
The proposal marks the latest step in Virginia’s gradual removal of Confederate symbols from state property and official designations. Over the past several years, the Commonwealth has taken actions including the removal of Confederate monuments, renaming of state holidays, and discontinuation of certain state-sponsored emblems tied to the Confederacy.
Helmer, a Democrat representing Northern Virginia, filed the bill as part of the 2026 Regular Session. A summary on the Virginia Legislative Information System confirms that the legislation would “repeal authorization for the issuance of Sons of Confederate Veterans and Robert E. Lee special license plates.”
If approved, the bill would officially end the production of any new Confederate heritage plates by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
House Bill 1344 would eliminate the issuance and renewal of Virginia license plates honoring Robert E. Lee and the Sons of Confederate Veterans.