The bill proposes the addition of a new section, 10-3-3, to the Code of West Virginia, which aims to establish patriotic memorials in honor of the Semiquincentennial Celebration of the United States. The legislation recognizes the significance of the 250th anniversary of the United States and mandates the erection of patriotic statues across the northern, southern, eastern, and western regions of the state. These statues are intended to commemorate the nation's birth and West Virginia's heritage, with a completion deadline set before the Semiquincentennial date in 2026.
To facilitate this initiative, the bill establishes a commission that will oversee the construction of the statues, starting on July 1, 2025. The commission will be chaired by the Secretary of Tourism and will include two citizens appointed by the Governor. The commission is responsible for soliciting bids for the construction and ensuring compliance with state purchasing laws. A quorum for meetings will require a majority of members, and decisions will be made based on majority votes. The bill emphasizes the importance of timely completion of the memorials in alignment with the upcoming national celebration.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 10-3-3
Committee Substitute: 10-3-3
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 10-3-3