Modifies provisions relating to the corporal Stephen Lee Irvin memorial highway in Boone County
The bill's passage would amend the existing state law that governs highway designations in Missouri. By doing so, it facilitates the process of commemorating local heroes and can improve community recognition and pride. The Missouri Department of Transportation would be tasked with erecting and maintaining the necessary signs to indicate the change, with funding for these costs derived from private donations rather than public funds, thereby minimizing the financial impact on the state budget.
House Bill 1493, introduced by Representative Bush, proposes to formally re-designate a portion of State Highway 163 in Boone County as the 'Corporal Stephen Lee Irvin Memorial Highway'. This action aims to honor the memory of Corporal Irvin, presumably a local figure of significance, by establishing a dedicated memorial highway. The bill involves repealing an existing designation and enacting a new section to ensure the highway segment is officially recognized with appropriate signage.
While the bill appears straightforward, it may generate discussions among legislators about the allocation of resources for highway memorials versus other transportation needs. Additionally, the selection of individuals to be honored through such designations could prompt debates regarding the criteria for memorializing individuals on public infrastructure. Overall, this type of legislation often reflects broader societal values concerning memory, honor, and community identity.