Legislation aims to protect Pennsylvania's historical monuments from vandals

Local state senators are developing legislation to protect monuments from vandalism. 

Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-Franklin/Adams) is working with senators Dave Arnold (R-Dauphin/Lebanon/York), Judy Ward (R-Blair/Fulton/Cumberland/Franklin/Cumberland) and Dave Argall (R-Schuylkill/Berks) on the measure, which would strengthen existing state codes and implement new deterrents, according to a news release. As part of the legislation, the state attorney general would prioritize the prosecution of any matters related to the vandalism of monuments in Pennsylvania.

This announcement follows protests and vandalism around the country targeting statues of Confederate figures. Groups have also vandalized other historical figures, including George Washington and Ulysses S. Grant, the leader of the Union Army during the Civil War. 

Some people have called for the removal of the Confederate statues at Gettysburg National Military Park, which is located in Mastriano's district. Monuments at the battlefield have been vandalized in the past. 

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“In no society, should the vandalism of historic monuments, memorials, markers and statues become acceptable,” Mastriano said in a news release. “Unfortunately, this type of behavior is occurring across our country, without effective state-level legislation being in place to discourage such actions.”

“This important piece of legislation will defend the heritage and history of Pennsylvania, by combatting the desecration of historic monuments," he added. "It is my hope that this legislation halts further threats to our historical landscape and statewide treasures.”

The federal administration recently issued an executive order concerning historic monuments.

Amber South can be reached at asouth@publicopinionnews.com.