A Louisiana House committee has approved a bill that would allow Louisiana residents the opportunity to buy Team Gleason Foundation license plates to help former New Orleans Saints player Steve Gleason in the fight against ALS.

House Democrat Walt Leger III of New Orleans sponsored the bill, which requires a $25 annual royalty fee that would be forwarded to the Team Gleason Foundation.

"I'm sure I don't need to lecture the committee on the impact of Steve Gleason," Leger said.

The House Transportation Committee approved the bill and it now moves to the House floor.

Steve Gleason, one of the most beloved players in Saints history, played safety for the Black & Gold from 2000 to 2008. He was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in 2011.

He and his wife established the Team Gleason Foundation shortly after that to inspire and show other patients they "can not only live but thrive."

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