Sec. 1.5. (a) In cooperation with the bureau of motor vehicles, the department shall:
(1) verify a Gold Star family member's relationship status; and
(2) issue a free annual pass if requested by a Gold Star family member.
(b) A Gold Star family member must be a resident of Indiana to apply for a free annual pass.
(c) The department may adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 to implement this section.