Bill > H1306

This bill amends Chapter 272 of the General Laws by adding a new section that establishes penalties for the unauthorized sale or possession of veteran's grave markers. Specifically, it makes it illegal for anyone not authorized by law to sell or attempt to sell a veteran's grave marker, with a penalty of up to a $5,000 fine. The bill also criminalizes knowingly receiving, keeping, or selling a stolen veteran's grave marker or similar commemorative item, also punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, unless the person intends to return it to an appropriate authority like a cemetery, law enforcement, the department of veterans services, a veterans' group, or a town's veteran's agent. For repeat offenses of unauthorized sale, the penalty increases to potential imprisonment in state prison for up to five years or in jail for up to two and a half years, in addition to the $5,000 fine. This legislation aims to protect the integrity of grave markers for veterans, who are individuals who have served in the armed forces.