Special license plate could help police officers’ mental health. Signatures are needed

Tri-Cities law enforcement officers will be asking fans at Saturday’s hockey game to support a statewide effort for a specialty vehicle plate.

The Washington State Fraternal Order of Police is heading up the campaign that will go before legislators in the upcoming session.

The goal is, if approved, proceeds from the license plate will go directly to support the health and wellness of law enforcement, with a special focus on mental health.

“Law enforcement mental health has risen to a top priority concern by chiefs and sheriffs in recent years,” Lynnette Buffington, executive director of the Washington State FOP, said in a news release. “To date in 2019, law enforcement officers have a higher probability of death by suicide than in the line of duty.”

A mock-up of the plate shows white lettering on a black background with a blue ribbon over a silhouette of Washington state.

Tri-Cities Lodge #7 is partnering with the Tri-City Americans to gather signatures to help secure the plate.

Members and supporters of the lodge will be at the game against the Vancouver Giants, which starts at 7:05 p.m. at the Toyota Center, 7000 W. Grandridge Blvd., in Kennewick.