Connecticut House Bill HB06044

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/15
• Refer: 1/22/15

Caption

An Act Naming A Portion Of The Paugussett State Forest The "sandy Hook Memorial State Forest".

Impact

If enacted, this bill would formalize the name change of this area within the Paugussett State Forest, impacting state laws concerning public lands and memorializations. Such a designation is meant to ensure that future generations recognize the significance of this site and the history attached to it. The addition of a memorial name could also promote tourism and visitation to the forest, creating an opportunity for the community to engage in educational and remembrance activities centered around the historical events related to Sandy Hook.

Summary

House Bill 6044 proposes to name a portion of the Paugussett State Forest in Newtown as the 'Sandy Hook Memorial State Forest'. This designation serves to memorialize the tragic events that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012. The bill emphasizes the community's ongoing remembrance and honor for the lives lost during this devastating incident. By establishing this memorial, the bill aims to provide a lasting tribute within the natural landscape, reinforcing the connection between the community and the memory of those affected.

Contention

While the nature of the bill focuses on a memorialization, it could evoke a range of sentiments among the public and legislators. Supporters of the bill may view it as an essential step toward healing and recognition of a traumatic event in the community's history. On the other hand, there may be members of the community and stakeholders who feel differently about how such memorials should be established or whether a state forest is an appropriate location for such a remembrance. The discussions surrounding the bill may bring forth broader issues related to gun violence, school safety, and how communities memorialize tragedies.