My last amendment hasn't technically failed yet, but assuming there isn't a mass shift in perception in the next two hours, going to go ahead and offer another amendment that addresses the valid point Truman made (thank you). Now, this amendment would also carry the penalties for not just tearing down a statue, but also defacing it in any way. I'm not sure if that is the sponsor's intent, if not, I will withdraw and we can come up with alternative language. This is just all I can think of right now, so open to suggestions!
AN ACT
to protect statues of historical figures in the South
Section 1 (Title & Definitions)
i. The title of this act shall be, the “Protecting Our History"
Section 2 (Protecting Statues)
i. Anyone who takes down or participates in taking down the vandalism of a statue of a historical figure will be fined $500 for destroying public property. Citizens may choose to permanently take down a statue only by a ballot referendum in an election.
ii. Police departments in jurisdictions where a historical statue is taken down will be compensated $250.
Section 3 (Implementation)
i. This legislation shall come into effect immediately upon signature by the Governor.
I think this is a sensible amendment so I support.
