Providing for the America250PA Semiquincentennial Celebration Bell monument on the grounds of the State Capitol to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, Pennsylvania's integral role in that event and the impact of its people on the nation's past, present and future.
Summary
HB999 would authorize and direct the placement of the America250PA Semiquincentennial Celebration Bell monument on the grounds of the State Capitol in Harrisburg. The bill identifies a specific location outside the East Wing of the Capitol Complex, on the concourse level between the fountain and the East Wing entrance, for the monument commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and Pennsylvania’s role in that history.
The measure also assigns responsibilities for the monument’s preparation, construction, and long-term care. It requires the Department of General Services to prepare the site, cooperate with the America250PA Commission on construction and placement, and assume ownership of the monument after the commission disbands. Once transferred, the monument becomes Commonwealth property and must be maintained by the Department of General Services in perpetuity. The bill takes effect immediately.
Impact
HB999 would create a statutory directive for a specific commemorative installation on state-owned Capitol grounds and would formalize state responsibility for the monument’s site preparation, ownership, and perpetual maintenance. It affects the Department of General Services and the America250PA Commission, while also establishing the monument as Commonwealth property after the commission ends. The bill does not alter broader regulatory or fiscal law, but it does impose an ongoing maintenance obligation on a state agency.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests broad support and little opposition. The House Tourism, Recreation and Economic Development Committee reported the bill as committed by a unanimous 26-0 vote, and there is no committee transcript indicating controversy or debate. Overall, the bill appears to have been treated as a ceremonial and commemorative measure with bipartisan appeal.
Contention
No major points of contention are evident in the available record. The bill is narrowly focused on the location, ownership, and upkeep of a commemorative monument, and the committee vote indicates consensus. Any potential concerns would likely center on the use of Capitol grounds, long-term maintenance responsibilities, or the appropriateness of a permanent monument, but none of those issues are reflected in the provided discussion or vote history.
Relating to the removal, relocation, alteration, or construction of certain monuments or memorials located on public property; authorizing a civil penalty.