Louisiana House Bill HB277

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/11
• Refer: 4/25/11
• Report Pass: 5/24/11
• Engrossed: 6/6/11

Caption

Provides for a Ten Commandments monument on the state capitol grounds (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

This legislation aligns the state's public displays with the acknowledgment of religious history in America. It requires that a plaque accompanying the monument presents a context for the Ten Commandments as outlined in previous legal rulings, particularly referencing the Supreme Court case Van Orden v. Perry. The intent behind this bill is to promote religious representation within public spaces, reflecting the state's acknowledgment of its religious heritage.

Summary

House Bill 277 mandates the installation of a Ten Commandments monument on the grounds of the Louisiana state capitol. The bill requires the commissioner of administration to permit and arrange for the monument's placement among other existing monuments. It emphasizes that the design, construction, placement, and maintenance of the monument will incur no cost to the state, as these responsibilities can be delegated to private entities, who must be financially capable of managing these costs. The dimensions of the monument are limited to a height of six feet, a width of four feet, and a depth of four feet.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 277 appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers who favor the inclusion of religious monuments in public spaces. Proponents view the bill as a reaffirmation of religious expression and cultural heritage. However, concerns have been raised by those wary of potential violations of the separation of church and state, as they fear that such displays may undermine efforts to maintain religious neutrality in public institutions.

Contention

Debates on HB 277 highlight a key contention between maintaining the constitutional separation of church and state versus the promotion of religious heritage. Critics argue that installing such a monument on state grounds could lead to legal challenges and necessitate reconsiderations of public resources dedicated to religious activities. Supporters, however, argue for the importance of religious symbols in public life as part of history and culture. The final vote revealed overwhelming support in the House, signaling a strong legislative backing for the bill.