Legislation Co-Sponsored by City Clerk Mendoza, Aldermen Cullerton, and Alderman Balcer Would Also Waive City Vehicle Sticker Late Fee for Deployed Military.

Under legislation introduced today by Chicago City Clerk Susana A. Mendoza and Aldermen Timothy Cullerton and James Balcer, Purple Heart Veterans would receive a free Chicago city vehicle sticker. The Purple Heart is a United Stated military decoration awarded to those who have been wounded or killed while serving with the U.S. Military. In Chicago, Purple Heart Veterans would join disabled veterans and people who, while serving in the Armed Forces, were taken prisoner of war, as those military personnel who receive free vehicle stickers.

“There are approximately 300 vehicles licensed to Purple Heart recipients in Chicago,” said City Clerk Mendoza. “These are military personnel who put their lives on the line for us during times of war and were put in great danger. It only makes sense for them to receive a free city vehicle sticker, just as our disabled veterans and POW veterans currently do.”

The legislation also codifies a long-standing practice of the City Clerk’s Office to waive the late fees for returning military personnel. U.S. Armed Forces personnel stationed outside of the City at the time of the city vehicle sticker purchase deadline, traditionally July 15, will have 30 days upon their return to the City before incurring a late fee. The person will need to provide sufficient proof of deployment, such as military orders, to receive the fee waiver.

"I am proud to co-sponsor this ordinance with City Clerk Susana A. Mendoza and Alderman James Balcer, himself a highly decorated Purple Heart Veteran, as a sign of our city's recognition and thanks to the brave men and women of Chicago who served selflessly in our Armed Forces and who were wounded in battle while serving our country, defending our freedoms,” said Alderman Cullerton.

The legislation is expected to have a financial impact of approximately $30,000 to $40,000 in vehicle sticker fee waivers for Purple Heart recipients. New vehicle sticker fees are $85 for a small passenger car, $135 for a large passenger car and $200 for a pick up truck. The vehicle sticker late fee is $60. It is imposed after the traditional July 15 purchase deadline or after the 30 day grace period to purchase a sticker when a person buys a new car or moves to the city.