Feb. 04, 2019
HARRISBURG – The House today passed legislation authored by Rep. Tim O’Neal (R-Washington) that would help bolster the proper upkeep of grave decorations for all honorably discharged veterans in second-class counties.
“As a veteran, I am pleased to have my first piece of legislation that passed the House help properly honor our military service people who have given so much to protect our freedoms,” O’Neal said. “While it is important to pay homage to all of our deceased by keeping cemeteries in proper repair, our veterans deserve special attention. It is upsetting to see worn or tattered flags on the graves of veterans. We can do better.”
House Bill 233 would strengthen current law to require cemeteries in second-class counties to remove flags from veterans’ graves when they become unsightly or weatherworn after Veterans Day and that all flags used be American made. In addition, a family member could remove the flag and keep it after Veterans Day.
Under current law, all counties are required to furnish a U.S. flag to be placed at the graves of all honorably discharged veterans each Memorial Day. The bill also would allow cemeteries in second-class counties to remove flags after Independence Day through the course of normal maintenance, as long as the flags are provided for redecoration in recognition of Veterans Day.
Last session, similar legislation became law for first-class and third- through eighth-class counties.
The bill now goes to the Senate for its consideration.
The 48th Legislative District in Washington County includes the city of Washington; Chartiers, North Franklin, North Strabane and South Strabane townships; and Canonsburg, East Washington and Houston boroughs.
Representative Tim O’Neal
48th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Tracy Polovick
717.260.6358
tpolovick@pahousegop.com
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