Bill advances to protect military monuments

LITTLE ROCK — An Arkansas House committee has endorsed a proposal to make relocating, altering or disturbing military monuments a felony.

Republican Rep. Joe Farrer of Austin said his bill is intended to protect military heritage and prevent groups from removing religious or potentially offensive imagery. Statues, gravestones, plaques, schools, streets, parks and other public property that honor the military would be defined as a protected monument under the change.

People who violate the law could be charged with a felony punishable by up to six years in prison or a $10,000 fine.

The House State Agencies and Governmental Affairs committee on Wednesday approved the bill in a voice vote. It now heads to the full House.

Upcoming Events