Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB71

Introduced
3/7/23  
Refer
3/7/23  
Refer
6/28/23  
Report Pass
9/22/23  
Refer
9/22/23  
Report Pass
3/27/24  
Refer
3/27/24  
Report Pass
4/8/24  
Engrossed
4/8/24  
Refer
4/22/24  
Refer
10/22/24  
Report Pass
10/22/24  
Enrolled
11/13/24  
Chaptered
11/18/24  

Caption

Providing for the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument on the grounds of the State Capitol to honor and remember those who have fallen in the line of duty and those left behind.

Impact

The legislation provides for the site-specific construction of the monument, designated to be located south of the Forum Building and east of the Speaker K. Leroy Irvis Office Building. The bill delegates responsibilities to the MI Charitable Foundation for the monument's preparation, construction, and maintenance, indicating a collaborative effort between the state and private organizations to ensure the monument's lasting presence. This act reflects a broader state commitment to honoring those who have served in the military, reinforcing the state's responsibility to memorialize fallen soldiers and support their families.

Summary

House Bill 71 aims to establish a Gold Star Families Memorial Monument on the grounds of the Pennsylvania State Capitol. This monument is intended to honor and remember individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice in military service and the families they have left behind. The bill emphasizes the importance of recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of Gold Star Families, representing a collective sentiment of gratitude and remembrance within the community. Through the provisions outlined in the bill, the state government seeks to ensure that these families receive the acknowledgment they deserve.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 71 is positive, as it acknowledges and honors the sacrifices made by military families. This bill resonates with a widespread public support for veteran recognition initiatives, striking a chord of respect and appreciation among constituents. The unanimous support in the voting history, with 48 yeas and no nays reported during its final passage, further underscores the bipartisan agreement on the importance of memorializing those who have served the country.

Contention

While the bill has garnered substantial support, it may face logistical challenges regarding the installation and ongoing maintenance of the monument. Discussion surrounding state funding allocations for the project, and the maintenance responsibilities post-installation, could potentially arise as points of contention among lawmakers. Furthermore, ensuring public awareness and engagement in the memorial’s dedication could be vital to its success and to properly honoring Gold Star Families.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

WV HB3312

Establishing a memorial to child labor and child workers who died in the course of employment in this state

GA HB467

State flag, seal, and other symbols; protection of government statues and monuments; revise provisions

GA SB301

State Flag, Seal, and Other Symbols; protection of government statues, monuments, plaques, banners, and other commemorative symbols; revise provisions

AZ SB1407

State capitol areas; jurisdiction; maintenance

CA AB1452

State Capitol: Iraq Afghanistan Kuwait Veterans Memorial monument.

CA SB1407

State Capitol: victims and survivors of communism monument.

CA AB1762

State Capitol: Gold Star Families monument.

CA SJR16

The Chuckwalla, Joshua Tree, and Kw’tsán National Monuments.