Bill > SB175

This bill amends Georgia law to prohibit the mutilation, defacement, damage, destruction, removal, or concealment of any publicly or privately owned monument, which is defined broadly to include statues, plaques, flags, banners, and other commemorative symbols dedicated to historical entities or military service. It makes such actions a misdemeanor and allows for civil lawsuits against violators, who can be liable for treble the cost of repair or replacement, plus attorney's fees and court costs. The bill also clarifies that any interested person can bring a lawsuit to enforce these provisions, waiving the requirement for a specific personal injury. While it generally prohibits the removal or alteration of monuments, it allows for relocation if necessary for construction projects, provided the monument is moved to a site of similar prominence. The bill also establishes a registry for monuments on public property and explicitly waives sovereign and qualified immunity for the state and its officials in cases related to monument violations.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70344