Mississippi Senate Bill SB2295

Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/25
• Refer: 1/20/25
• Failed: 2/4/25

Caption

Prohibition on alteration or removal of historical monuments; clarify.

Impact

The proposed changes in SB2295 provide a legal framework that allows individuals to file civil claims if they believe the bill's provisions have been violated. By establishing a venue for such claims in chancery courts and permitting the recovery of attorney's fees for prevailing parties, the bill creates incentives for enforcement and compliance. This is expected to deter unauthorized alterations and to reinforce compliance with the established protections, thereby contributing to a systematic approach towards safeguarding historical elements.

Summary

Senate Bill 2295 aims to amend Section 55-15-81 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to enhance protection for historical monuments and memorials located on public property. The bill clarifies prohibitions against the alteration or removal of these structures, which include items dedicated to various wars and historical military figures. Under this amendment, the bill seeks to ensure that such monuments can only be relocated or modified under strict conditions, thereby reinforcing their preservation in the public domain. The intent is to uphold historical legacies associated with significant events in Mississippi's history.

Contention

The bill may be a point of contention as it emphasizes a strict governance model over historical markers at the potential expense of local judgment. Proponents argue that it is crucial for maintaining historical integrity, while opponents might see it as removing local control and flexibility regarding the management and reinterpretation of historical sites. As social perspectives on monuments evolve, especially those related to sensitive historical narratives, the bill could lead to debates on civic representation and how history is commemorated in public spaces.