Virginia to update state code with Commanders name amid team resurgence [View all]

[mahatmakanejeeves]

Virginia to update state code with Commanders name amid team resurgence

By: Nathaniel Cline - January 28, 2025 10:06 am

Legislation to officially remove “Washington Redskins” from the Code of Virginia and replace it with “Washington Commanders” took a step forward Tuesday, advancing to the full House Transportation Committee. ... The moves comes after the franchise concluded an 18-month rebranding process in 2022, changing its name to the Commanders following mounting pressure from Indigenous groups, fans, and corporate sponsors like, FedEx, which previously sponsored its stadium.

The timing couldn’t be more symbolic as on Sunday, the Commanders wrapped up one of their best seasons in years, finishing with a 12-5 record and advancing to the Top 4 teams in the playoffs before falling just short of a trip to the Super Bowl LIX.

House Bill 2721, sponsored by Del. Adele McClure, D-Arlington, aims to update state law regarding special license plates for team supporters. The bill would replace “Redskins” with “Commanders” on the plates and allow vehicle owners with existing plates to keep them until they expire.

According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, special license plate fees can be $10, $15, or $25 annually or a one-time $10, $25 or $50 fee based on the plate design, in addition to the registration fees. Personalization is an additional $10 annually.

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